Colella, Frank J., 1921-

The Public Affairs Office (JPL Section 180) was established in August 1969, with Richard B. Phillips appointed as Manager. The Public Affairs Manager was initially responsible for the publication of the Lab-Oratory newsletter as well as the operation of the Von Kármán Auditorium, the Laboratory Museum, the speaker's bureau, and the slide library. The Office originally included two sections, Public Information Office (181) and Public Educational Services (182).

In July 1976, with the retirement of Phillips, the scope and responsibilities of the Public Affairs Office was expanded, and a greater emphasis was placed on its role in management activities. Frank J. Colella, Manager of the Public Information Office, was named as the new manager of the Public Affairs Office. By this time, Division 180 included Audio-Visual Communication Section (183). A new section, the Legislative Affairs and Protocol Office (184) was soon established. Colella was also appointed to membership on the JPL Executive Council.

Colella retired in early 1988, and was succeeded by George F. Alexander. Alexander retired in early 1999, and was succeeded by Blaine Baggett. In November 1999, the Public Affairs Office merged with the Educational Affairs Office, and was renamed the Office of Communications and Education, with Baggett as Manager. In 2001, Baggett was appointed to full membership on the JPL Executive Council as Executive Manager of the Office of Communications and Education.