Staff Spotlight: Quentin Misiag

Assistant Account Executive Quentin Misiag brings writing, editing, social media marketing and political campaign experience to clients at Rapp Strategies. Quentin also coordinates digital, grassroots and social media campaigns.

“I love the variety of the work we do for our clients. Each project marches to its own drumbeat, but always revolves around strategy,” Quentin says. “I’ve loved learning about what makes Minnesota and its people tick.”

Quentin joined the Rapp Strategies team in October 2019 after working more than three years at the University of Iowa, where he helped coordinate the campus’s flagship social media efforts and later, its governmental relations and lobbying practices at the state and federal level.

During that time, he worked to elevate his hometown’s business, arts, and philanthropic sectors through fundraising and community awareness campaigns. In recent years, he has turned his focus to political organizing, helping South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg’s 2020 presidential campaign, Iowa Democrat Fred Hubbell’s 2018 gubernatorial campaign, and Georgia Democrat Stacey Abram’s Fair Fight Action organization.

From 2012 to 2016, he was a reporter, editor and TV analyst at The Daily Iowan, reporting on and directing news coverage for the 2012 and 2016 Iowa caucuses, the 2014 midterm and gubernatorial race, and a host of local issues, including real estate development, city council and school board action, and agriculture.

He earned bachelor’s degrees in journalism/mass communication and political science, and a certificate in entrepreneurial management from the University of Iowa.

“Ever since I can remember, I’ve been constantly curious. Having a background that encourages that curiosity has led to so many open doors and I’m excited for this new chapter in Minnesota. I’m a firm believer that we’re in the gilded age of information, communications, and marketing.”

How have you grown as a professional since you started working at Rapp Strategies?

Developing a thorough understanding of client needs and collaborating with colleagues who have a wealth of knowledge about the state of Minnesota has allowed me to view everyday issues from a unique lens.

What is your favorite aspect of your job?

My favorite part of my job is the variety of the work. There’s just something to be said about being fulfilled in your day’s work.

What is one habit that makes you more successful?

Habitual reading. I’m fascinated by people’s unique stories and how they arrived at their passions, whether that’s politics or placemaking in public spaces.

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

First an astronaut, then a journalist, and then a public servant or politician.

What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?

Interviewing every presidential candidate for president in the 2016 election, except for former New York Governor George Pataki.

What is one thing about you few people know?

In July 2015, I camped out on the South Lawn of the White House with President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, and some 50 Girl Scouts for the inaugural “White House Campout.” It was part of the first lady’s signature “Let’s Move! Outside” effort to curb obesity. It was a big hit with my then-editor and for the scouts, who got to talk with the president and first lady around haystacks and a makeshift fire of LED lanterns about the importance of just being a kid.  

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Perception rules the world.

What is one piece of wisdom you would give your younger self?

Live passionately, but give generously.