Corey Barenbrugge specializes in strategy development, facilitation, and message development for LINK’s clients. As Chief Operating Officer and Senior Strategist at LINK Strategic Partners, he oversees business development, client contracting, and firm operations while providing strategic leadership on project execution and the development of high-quality written deliverables. Corey plays a key role in shaping communication strategies for LINK’s clients, working closely with project teams to define target audiences, key messages, and engagement channels. His expertise in writing and research is complemented by deep experience in community engagement and local government.

A trusted strategist in education and public sector projects, Corey has led engagement and communication efforts for school districts and government agencies across the country. He led LINK’s community engagement work with Lee’s Summit R-7 School District in Missouri, guiding a multi-phased process that incorporated broad stakeholder input into a comprehensive master facilities plan. In St. Joseph, Missouri, Corey managed LINK’s engagement efforts in partnership with the project architect to develop a vision for school facilities that reflects both community needs and long-term economic development goals. He also directed LINK’s work with the DC Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) on the development of the DC School Report Card, facilitating broad community engagement and designing communication strategies that reached thousands of parents, educators, and policymakers.

Corey also provides comprehensive editorial and strategic support for marketing collateral, strategic plans, annual reports, presentations, and engagement strategies. Prior to joining LINK, Corey served as Special Assistant to the General Counsel at The George Washington University, where he managed workflow processes and document review for legal and administrative matters. As a Presidential Fellow in the GW Office of Government and Community Relations, he worked on community engagement projects involving District of Columbia officials and local organizations. 

Corey lives with his wife and two sons outside of St. Louis, Missouri, where he leads LINK’s growing Midwest presence.