ULSA, Okla. (Aug. 2, 2017) - GPA Midstream Association announces the hiring of Laura Chandler as manager of state government affairs. In this role, Chandler will focus on midstream advocacy efforts in Louisiana, Oklahoma, New Mexico and Texas.

Chandler holds a Master of Business Administration from St. Edward's University and two bachelor's degrees from the University of North Texas. Prior to joining GPA Midstream, she worked as a lobbyist on midstream and energy issues for the Texas Energy Lobby in Austin.

"Laura knows GPA Midstream and midstream issues and will be an asset to us in Austin where she has focused her efforts over the past several years. She will also help GPA Midstream expand its footprint in Oklahoma, Louisiana and New Mexico," said GPA Midstream President and CEO Mark Sutton.

In April, GPA Midstream added another level of staff support in its Washington, D.C. office with the hiring of Charlotte Sawyer as manager of government affairs. Sawyer's responsibilities include participating in the implementation and management of GPA Midstream's federal legislative strategies and serving as a lobbyist before the U.S. Congress and federal agencies.

Sawyer holds a Bachelor of Arts in politics and history from Ave Maria University in Florida. Prior to joining the association, she served as external affairs manager for the National Review Institute.

Both Chandler and Sawyer report to GPA Midstream Vice President of Government Affairs Matthew Hite.