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NMMA announced today that former U.S. Senator Bob Corker (R-TN) staffer Lee Gatts has joined the organization as its newest policy and engagement manager, focusing on the Southeast region.

NMMA senior vice president of government relations and legal affairs Nicole Vasilaros notes, "Lee brings a breadth of government relations experience and coupled with his time working in Senator Corker's office and his broader political acumen, he will play a key role as we deepen our footprint and increase our state-level presence in the region."

In his new role, Gatts will support NMMA's advocacy and grassroots activities in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Prior to joining NMMA, Gatts served as Field Director for Senator Corker, working with state and local elected officials, business leaders, and constituents in Middle Tennessee. Gatts also served as the Grassroots Director for Tennesseans' for Student Success, an education non-profit based in Nashville, Tennessee.

"It's an incredible privilege to join this smart, dynamic team committed to strengthening the recreational boating industry," Gatts said. "I look forward to applying my experience and passion for NMMA's policy issues to support our members at the local level."

A longtime Tennessee resident, Gatts earned his master's and undergraduate degree at Tennessee Technological University, where he was awarded the prestigious "Derryberry Award," given to one graduating senior each year. In 2015, Gatts was recognized by Governor Bill Haslam and awarded the Colonel Aide de Camp for "outstanding achievement by a Tennessee citizen."

Gatts can be reached at [email protected].