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WHITNEY WETZEL

(West Virginia)

Subjects: All Subjects

Links:LinkedIn

Whitney Wetzel is the Director of Communications and Advocacy at 3PS, where she leads integrated strategies at the intersection of public affairs, media, and messaging. With a background in both journalism and state government, Whitney brings a deep understanding of how to shape narratives that influence decision-makers, engage the public, and drive results. At 3PS, she helps clients navigate complex policy challenges, tell their stories effectively, and achieve their goals. True to the firm's mission, she works to put clients in the best position possible to succeed and to be a light in every interaction on their behalf.

0-5 years

Named Best Anchor by both the West Virginia Broadcasters Association and the Associated Press of the Virginias

Recipient of a Regional Edward R. Murrow Award for Breaking News Coverage

Emmy Nomination for Feature Reporting

Licensed West Virginia real estate agent, holding multiple industry designations, including:
     Accredited Buyer's Representative (ABR)
     Seller Representative Specialist (SRS)
     Military Relocation Professional (MRP)
     GREEN Designee
     Graduate, REALTOR Institute (GRI)

Awarded Rookie of the Year by Old Colony Realtors for 2024

Whitney Wetzel serves as Director of Communications and Advocacy at 3PS, LLC, a full-service government affairs, marketing, and public relations firm based in Charleston, West Virginia. Whitney joined the team in 2025, bringing with her more than a decade of experience in media and public sector communications.

A graduate of West Virginia University with a B.S. in broadcast journalism and a minor in political science, Whitney began her career as a television news anchor and reporter, covering stories across West Virginia and Kentucky. Her time in journalism earned her multiple industry honors and a reputation for thoughtful, compelling storytelling.

Following her broadcast career, Whitney transitioned into state government, where served as Director of Communications for the West Virginia Department of Human Services. In that role, she led communications for the state's largest agency during a major organizational restructure, managing media strategy, branding, and crisis communications at the cabinet level.

At 3PS, Whitney bridges the firm's communications and government affairs efforts - offering strategic counsel to clients in sectors including healthcare, human services, and education. Her expertise spans campaign development, stakeholder engagement, and media relations, and she brings a passion for storytelling and advocacy to every project. Whitney is proud to help clients create meaningful change in West Virginia communities and beyond.

  • (713)4932742

  • 1800 West Loop SouthSuite 1250HoustonTX77056

Former chief of staff for House Appropriations Cardinal

Leads both federal and state clients from the firm's Houston office

Serves on advisory and steering committees for Texas delegation members

Tony Essalih joined Cornerstone in 2011 as a co-lead of the firm's flagship Texas office in Houston. He spent 12 years on Capitol Hill and came to Cornerstone from the office of Congressman John Culberson (R-Houston). Tony worked for Congressman Culberson for 10 years, the last five as his chief of staff. Prior to becoming chief of staff, Tony served in a variety of capacities including legislative assistant, legislative director, communications director, and deputy chief of staff. He spent eight years in Washington, D.C. before relocating to Houston in 2007.

As chief of staff, Tony was responsible for guiding the day-to-day operations of the Congressman's Washington and Houston offices, and oversaw a 15-member staff under a fixed budget. Outside of the office, he served as the principal liaison to the Congressman's campaign committee and provided strategic counsel and advice related to his re-election efforts. Tony's areas of policy expertise include transportation, energy, budget and appropriations. Tony also led outreach efforts and served as an emissary on behalf of the Congressman with state lawmakers in Austin and local elected officials in Houston.

Prior to Culberson's election in 2001, Tony worked as a legislative assistant for Congressman Culberson's predecessor, former House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Bill Archer. Tony's began his tenure on Capitol Hill with former House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Doc Hastings.

Tony has advised and assisted numerous local, state, and federal campaigns. He serves on the board of the National InterFaith Foundation, the Advisory Board for the Houston Technology Center, spent two years on the Board of the Spring Branch Medical Center and was a member of Houston Mayor Annise Parker's transition team in 2010.

Tony was born and raised in Fredericksburg, VA and received his B.A. in Political Science from Mary Washington College. He was a member of Mary Washington's NCAA semifinalist men's soccer team. He lives in Houston and has two angelic daughters, Grace and Libby.

JOE REIDY

(West Virginia)
  • (304) 676-3675

  • P.O. Box 7058CharlestonWV25356

Subjects: All Subjects

Joe Reidy joined the 3PS team in 2021 following years of experience managing and advising Republican campaigns at every level of government. At 3PS, his work has centered on public affairs strategy for clients in highly regulated industries. Joe and the entire 3PS team take pride in being full-time, year-round advocates offering clients the consistent focus and strategic insight necessary to effectively navigate policy, politics, and regulation. In all of our work, we strive to put our clients in the best position possible to achieve success and to be a light to our clients and to those with whom we interact on their behalf.

0-5 years

Joe Reidy serves as Vice President of Public Affairs at 3PS, LLC, a government affairs and public relations firm based in Charleston, West Virginia. A Berkeley County native and graduate of West Virginia University, Joe has spent his career at the intersection of politics, policy, and advocacy.

Before joining 3PS in 2021, Joe advised successful campaigns at the local, state, and federal levels. He has worked with national consulting firms, trade associations, and political organizations to drive legislative strategies and build grassroots and grasstops engagement across the region.

At 3PS, Joe leads public affairs efforts for clients in some of the most heavily regulated sectors, offering strategic counsel, coalition development, and policy support tailored to each client's unique needs. With a deep understanding of West Virginia's political and regulatory landscape, Joe brings energy, insight, and unwavering focus to every engagement.

Joe lives in Charleston with his wife, Katie, their daughter, Georgia, and their golden retriever, Charley.

BENJAMIN BEAKES

(West Virginia)
  • (304) 993-8917

  • P.O. Box 7058CharlestonWV25356

Ben Beakes is the founder and managing member of 3PS, LLC, a government affairs and public relations firm headquartered in Charleston, West Virginia. When he launched the firm in 2015, Ben's mission was clear: to put clients in the best position possible to achieve success, and to be a light to clients and to those with whom the firm interacts on their behalf. That guiding principle still defines 3PS today. Since its founding, the firm has represented more than 50 clients across a wide range of industries. From association management and lobbying to marketing and strategic communications, 3PS is committed to delivering results with purpose through thoughtful strategy, meaningful relationships, and a values-driven approach to advocacy.

11-15 years

2012 Generation Next: Top 40 under 40

2016 University of Charleston Alumnus of the Year

  • Ben Beakes is a true professional who has provided first-rate service to the institutions that comprise the West Virginia Independent Colleges and Universities. Our decision to engage 3PS has been a wise investment resulting in an amplification of our voice among decision makers, strengthened brand recognition, and increased engagement among our donors. - Chris A. Wood, President - Davis & Elkins College
  • Ben and 3PS have done a phenomenal job in understanding the intricacies of the issues that impact the managed care industry. He is able to clearly state our position and advocate on our behalf, as well as have an informed discussion around those topics with policy-makers throughout the state. - Tadd Haynes, President - WellPoint West Virginia
  • Ben has been an outstanding colleague in the services he has provided for our WVICU organization. His energy and competency reflect a benefit far beyond his fees. He represents our interests as though he was actually one of our members! - Dr. Daniel Anderson, President - Appalachian Bible College
  • Ben Beakes is the founder and managing member of 3PS, LLC, a government affairs and public relations firm headquartered in West Virginia. A 2002 graduate of the University of Charleston with a degree in political science, Ben began his career as Political Director for the West Virginia Republican Party. In 2005, he was appointed Chief of Staff to Secretary of State Betty Ireland, becoming one of the youngest individuals to serve in that capacity in state government.

    Following his time in public service, Ben briefly worked in the private sector before being named State Director of the McCain 2008 presidential campaign in West Virginia. In 2009, he returned to his alma mater to serve as Vice President for University Development, a role he held for five years. Ben then joined Alpha Natural Resources as Director of Government and External Affairs, managing state and federal policy efforts.

    On September 1, 2015, Ben launched 3PS, combining his deep policy experience, strategic insight, and extensive relationships into a firm designed to serve clients with integrity and purpose. With over two decades of experience in public policy, politics, and advocacy, Ben has built a reputation as a tireless and trusted voice for the individuals, companies, and associations he represents.

    NORLYN ASPREC

    (California)
    Clients:
    Clients:
    Clients:

    MOLLIE CORCORAN

    (California)
    Clients:

    JARED FICKER

    (California)
    Clients:

    CATHERINE GILSON

    (California)
    Clients:

    SABRINA GLEITZ

    (California)
    Clients:
    Clients:

    JEN KHA

    (California)

    JASON KINNEY

    (California)
    Clients:

    NICOLE MACDOUGALL

    (California)
    Clients:

    KEVIN MCKINLEY

    (Tennessee)

    KEVIN MCKINLEY

    (Colorado)
    • 650-798-5800

    • 2865 Sand Hill Road, Suite 101Menlo ParkCA94025

    KEVIN MCKINLEY

    (Delaware)
    • 2865 Sand Hill Road Suite 101Menlo ParkCA94025

    CHRIS MOWRER

    (California)
    Clients:
    Clients:

    1) A16Z CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, LLC

    2) AFFORDABLE ASSISTED LIVING COALITION

    3) AMEREN ILLINOIS

    4) AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF ORTHODONTIST

    5) AMERICAN COUNCIL OF LIFE INSURERS

    6) ANAPLAN INC.

    7) AUTO AND TRUCK RECYCLERS OF ILLINOIS

    8) BAYER U.S. LLC

    9) COLLINSVILLE CUSD #10

    10) COPACK INDUSTRIES LLC

    11) DECATUR DOWNS LLC

    12) DESTINATION ILLINOIS LLC

    13) DIRECTV, LLC

    14) DUCKS UNLIMITED

    15) ECHOSTAR CORPORATION AND ITS AFFILIATES

    16) ENTERPRISE LEASING COMPANY OF CHICAGO, LLC DBA ENTERPRISE MOBILITY

    17) EXXON MOBIL CORPORATION

    18) FIREMEN'S ANNUITY & BENEFIT FUND OF CHICAGO

    19) FMR, LLC

    20) FORESIGHT ENERGY, LLC

    21) GERONIMO POWER, LLC

    22) GOOGLE LLC AND ITS AFFILIATES

    23) GRAND PRAIRIE WATER COMMISSION

    24) HEALTH CARE COUNCIL OF ILLINOIS

    25) I3 BROADBAND

    26) ID.ME

    27) ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION OF VOCATIONAL AGRICULTURE TEACHERS

    28) ILLINOIS CENTRAL RAILROAD COMPANY

    29) ILLINOIS COMMUNITY COLLEGE TRUSTEES ASSOCIATION

    30) ILLINOIS HEALTH & HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION

    31) ILLINOIS LIFE & HEALTH INSURANCE COUNCIL

    32) ILLINOIS PHYSICAL THERAPY ASSOCIATION

    33) ILLINOIS PIPE TRADES, P.E.C.

    34) ILLINOIS PUBLIC HIGHER EDUCATION COOPERATIVE

    35) ILLINOIS RADIOLOGICAL SOCIETY

    36) ILLINOIS RETAIL MERCHANTS ASSOCIATION

    37) ILLINOIS SOCIETY OF ANESTHESIOLOGISTS

    38) ILLUMINATIVE STRATEGIES INC.

    39) INTERNATIONAL UNION OF OPERATING ENGINEERS LOCAL 318

    40) INTERNATIONAL UNION OF OPERATING ENGINEERS LOCAL 520

    41) INTERNATIONAL UNION OF OPERATING ENGINEERS LOCAL 649

    42) INTERNATIONAL UNION OF OPERATING ENGINEERS LOCAL 841

    Clients:

    KEVIN SCHMIDT

    (California)
    Clients:
    Clients:

    MARGRETE SNYDER

    (California)
    Clients:

    BENJAMIN TURNER

    (California)
    Clients: