FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 6, 2026
CONTACT:
Ashley Bauman, [email protected], 239.404.1214
Port Tampa Bay Names Merissa Lynn as Director of Communications
TAMPA, Fla. — Port Tampa Bay has named Merissa Lynn Director of Communications, bringing extensive experience across executive communications, crisis management, public safety, healthcare, and media to one of the nation’s most dynamic and strategically important ports.
In her new role, Lynn will lead Port Tampa Bay’s communications strategy, overseeing executive messaging, media relations, crisis communications, digital content, and stakeholder engagement in support of the port’s long-term Vision 2030 priorities and continued growth.
“Merissa brings an exceptional blend of strategic communications expertise, crisis leadership, and real-time media experience,” said Paul Anderson, President & CEO of Port Tampa Bay. “As Port Tampa Bay continues to advance Vision 2030 and deliver major infrastructure and economic development initiatives, her leadership will ensure our story is told clearly, credibly, and with purpose.”
Most recently, Lynn served as Director of Executive and Strategic Communications for University of South Florida Athletics, where she directed executive-level communications, guided department-wide messaging, and led storytelling for transformative initiatives, including the construction of USF’s on-campus stadium. She also oversaw crisis communications and led high-profile transitions involving senior leadership and head coaches.
Previously, Lynn was the Executive Communications Strategist at BayCare Health System, supporting the CEO Cabinet with strategic messaging aligned with the organization’s long-term vision, drafting executive remarks and board materials, and advancing thought leadership across various platforms.
Her public service experience includes leadership roles with both the Tampa Police Department and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, where she served as a senior spokesperson, managed communications during critical incidents, coordinated major press conferences, and led public information teams in fast-paced, 24/7 environments.
“Port Tampa Bay operates in a complex, high-visibility environment where clear, timely, and trusted communication matters,” Anderson added. “Merissa’s background in public safety, healthcare, and executive leadership makes her uniquely qualified to lead our communications efforts and strengthen trust with our partners, stakeholders, and the community.”
“I’m honored to join Port Tampa Bay at such an exciting moment,” said Lynn. “The port plays a vital role in our economy, supply chain, and community, and I look forward to helping share its story, support its mission, and advance a clear, future-focused vision.”
Lynn began her career in television news, spending nearly a decade in the industry, including six years with FOX-owned and operated stations in Atlanta and Tampa, where she earned an Emmy Award. She reported and anchored across sports, politics, and breaking news, bringing a deep understanding of media operations and strategic storytelling to her new role.
A University of Florida graduate, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Telecommunication with a concentration in Broadcast News and a minor in Spanish. Her experience includes serving on nonprofit boards in the Tampa Bay area and participating in national and regional professional public information organizations.
