Paula Roberts, President

Paula Roberts, M.A., is Aqua Community Relations Group’s proprietor and president. She has more than 25 years of experience leading outreach and public engagement efforts, and has led the Aqua (Humanability) team since 2009. Paula considers identifying and inspiring talent to be her greatest strength, but she is also known for expert public relations advice, adept problem-solving, crisp writing, and the flexibility of a true communications generalist. She has managed more than two dozen of the firm’s projects, serving the City of San Diego, Otay Water District, the San Diego County Water Authority, and the San Diego Redistricting Commission with hands-on management and expertise.

Before establishing a consulting practice, Paula’s career included 15 years with Sweetwater Authority, where she directed the communications department and its risk management, occupational safety and conservation programs. Paula also coordinated public engagement at the Metropolitan Council of MN, provided public relations for a senior services provider, and contracted with the Minnehaha Creek Watershed District and Neighborhood Housing Works. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree from Concordia University (St. Paul) in Organizational Behavior and Communications, and a Master of Arts from the University of Phoenix (San Diego) in Organizational Management. She has held professional certifications as an Occupational Safety Specialist (COSS) and Water Conservation Practitioner (AWWA Grade 2).

In her profession, Paula has been recognized with more than a dozen advisory committee appointments and professional project awards. In her spare time, she enjoys singing and playing the piano, photography, reading, crafting and DIY. Paula is a devoted mother of two college students, and volunteers her expertise to advocate for people who face barriers due to autistic spectrum, mental health challenges, and poverty.