Update on Communications and Marketing Search

Dear colleagues,  
 
To elevate the reputation of the University of Denver locally and nationally, to continue to attract students from across the country, and to strongly position DU in the marketplace, the vice chancellor of marketing and communications position has been elevated to senior vice chancellor of university relations (SVC university relations). In addition to overseeing DU’s marketing and communications efforts, the individual serving as SVC university relations will oversee the Office of Government Relations and Community Affairs.  
 
Higher education, and DU, are facing complex challenges. This moment requires a strong, strategic thinker—someone with fresh ideas about how to tell the world about the incredible education and research DU offers. As an SVC, the individual in this position will work closely with me and DU’s SVC team on our institutional strategy, including setting the agenda for the Chancellor’s Cabinet.  
 
The search process for this vital position has kicked off, co-led by Corinne Lengsfeld, senior vice provost for research and graduate education and Todd Rinehart, vice chancellor for enrollment management. Our search firm partner is Isaacson, Miller. 
 
I have charged the search committee with finding three to five exceptional candidates whose professional background is not limited to higher education. The hiring process must meet our diversity, equity, and inclusion standards with a focus on minimizing bias. The committee will also involve campus stakeholders as appropriate, including campus visits. Finally, the committee will consider the values and characteristics of the candidates ensuring we find someone who prioritizes the best interests of DU and our community.  
I am excited for this structural change and think it will help DU meet our first strategic imperative: ensuring our enduring future.  
 
Thank you to our search co-chairs and committee members for your time and commitment and to Shira Good and Johanna Blickenstaff, who continue to serve as interim co-vice chancellors for marketing and communications. 
 
Sincerely, 
 
Jeremy Haefner 
Chancellor 
 

SEARCH CO-CHAIRS 
 
Corinne Lengsfeld, senior vice provost for research & graduate education   
Todd Rinehart, Co-Chair, vice chancellor for enrollment management  
 
SEARCH COMMITTEE 
 
Jo Blickenstaff, interim co-vice chancellor of marketing & communications  
Gabrielle Giddings, assistant vice chancellor, advancement & campaign communications  
Craig Harrison, trustee 
Stephanie O’Malley, associate vice chancellor for government & community relations 
Gretchen Pressley, director of communications  
Chris Roby, assistant vice chancellor for student engagement & 4D Experience 
Nathan Willers, director of communications, 4D Experience & Staff Senate president 
Renée Botta, associate professor & Faculty Senate president 
Faculty member, to be determined 
 
ADMINISTRTIVE SUPPORT 
Claire Brownell, director of protocol and assistant secretary of the Board of Trustees 
 
SEARCH FIRM 
Isaacson, Miller