Virginia Lam Abrams

Virginia Lam Abrams joined Columbia University in January 2025.  In the role of Senior Vice President of Communications in the Office of Public Affairs, she oversees our media relations and executive communications teams.

Virginia is a seasoned corporate communications and public affairs executive with more than two decades of experience in technology, media, and politics. She specializes in working with institutions, companies, and leaders, helping them to grow, navigate challenges, and influence policy at local, state, and federal levels. A master storyteller, she excels at shaping public narratives to advance priorities and managing crisis communications and high-profile risk matters.

Most recently, Virginia served as co-founder and executive vice president of corporate communications, government affairs, and strategic advancement at Starry, Inc., a wireless technology developer and internet service provider. In this role, she managed all aspects of communications, served as chief lobbyist, and led Starry Connect, the company's social responsibility program focused on digital equity and broadband access in public and affordable housing communities.

Before Starry, Virginia held several prominent positions, including senior vice president at Aereo, where she led communications through a significant U.S. Supreme Court case, and she served as a senior vice president at Rubenstein Communications in New York City. She has also served as deputy press secretary for New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, and as the public information officer and spokesperson for the New York City Fire Department.

A graduate of Northwestern University with a degree in journalism and political science, Virginia currently serves as chair of the board of directors of Public Knowledge and was recognized by Crain's New York Business as a "Notable Asian Leader" in 2022.