Riley began with KCPS as a senior media relations specialist with a focus on supporting 30 of the district’s 64 schools and the athletics program. His role grew quickly, as he assumed the project manager role for significant KCPS projects such as the Wal-Mart Recycling Program and its annual back-to school fairs. In late 2008 he assumed the role of interim director of Public Relations, leading KCPS through a transition of three superintendents, the launch of the KCPS right-sizing effort to close 26schools, and the establishment of the district’s social media program.

With the hiring of a permanent public relations executive, Riley returned his original role of supporting students, families and staff through copywriting, photography, and the creation and launch of the Backpacks for Achievement program.

Riley’s professional roots were planted in 2002 when he was hired as a reporter for The Kansas City Kansan, his hometown newspaper. During his time as a reporter, and later a columnist, he garnered many honors including first place awards from the Kansas Press Association for investigative reporting , and the Kansas City Association of Black Journalists for column writing. In just 13 months, Andre’ was named managing editor of the newspaper.

Riley’s career progression led him to the Independence Examiner in 2005, where was hired as a general beat reporter for three cities in eastern Jackson County, Mo. During that time he progressed quickly though the ranks of the newspaper, being elevated to a reporter/columnist in 2006 and news editor in 2007.

Riley holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Missouri-Kansas City and is continuing course work toward an advanced degree in communications. He is a native of Kansas City, Kan.