Jennifer Van Ee has been appointed director of the Office of Government Relations, effective July 26. She succeeds Claudia Arko, who served Fairfax County with distinction until her unexpected passing earlier this year.

Van Ee brings more than a decade of experience in legislative strategy, public policy and intergovernmental affairs to her new role. Most recently, she served as acting legislative director for Fairfax County, where she led federal and state advocacy efforts in coordination with the Board of Supervisors and county leadership. In this role, she developed policy, formulated political strategies and engaged with elected officials to advance county priorities. She also managed a team overseeing government relations and policy development.

Previously, Van Ee served as deputy legislative director, coordinating legislative strategy, monitoring state and federal policy, and representing the county’s interests to elected bodies. Her work contributed to the successful advancement of several Board-supported initiatives and the development of key intergovernmental relationships.

Earlier in her career, Van Ee held positions with Arlington County's Department of Human Services, where she worked on policy implementation, regulatory compliance and interagency collaboration. She also supported adoption services, training and technical assistance programs, and federal grant initiatives in earlier roles with nonprofits and contractors serving public-sector clients.

The Office of Government Relations represents Fairfax County before the Virginia General Assembly, the U.S. Congress and regional bodies, advocating for policy decisions that support the county's legislative priorities.

Van Ee holds a master's degree in social policy from the University of Chicago and a bachelor's degree in political science and history from Trinity Christian College.

For more information about Fairfax County's positions and legislative advocacy on behalf of the county and its residents visit: www.fairfaxcounty.gov/legislation.