Governor Laura Kelly today announced Shelbie Konkel as Senior Advisor for Federal & State Affairs. In her new position, Konkel will oversee the departments of Government Affairs, Appointments, and Constituent Services.
Konkel first joined the Kelly Administration in November of 2018 as Chief of Staff to then Lt. Governor Lynn Rogers, where she led efforts to establish the Office of Rural Prosperity and coordinated the External Affairs Division for the Governor’s Office. In the Summer of 2020, she was named Deputy Executive Director of the Recovery Office, which at the time was tasked with coordinating the Governor’s Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Taskforce to strategically invest the state’s $1.25 billion in discretionary CARES Act Funding before the end of the year. In 2021, Konkel rejoined the Governor’s Office as Senior Advisor to the Governor, coordinating external affairs.
“Shelbie has served in several important roles before and through the COVID-19 pandemic, assisting my administration to carry out critical services and grow our state’s economy,” Governor Kelly said. “I’m pleased now to appoint her to this significant and well-earned position to help guide our staff through what will be an important legislative session and beyond.”
Governor Kelly also announced the departure of Government Affairs Director Tim Graham. Graham joined the administration in February of 2019, first as Deputy Director for the Kansas Lottery, before transitioning to Director of Governmental Affairs in November of 2019. Prior to joining the Kelly Administration, Graham served in a number of positions including as the Chief of Staff to former Kansas Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley.
“I want to thank Tim for his outstanding service to our state, both in my administration and his many years in the Senate Minority Leader’s office,” said Governor Kelly. “I wish him all the best as he transitions to his new career.”