The use of media and commu­nications has become ubiquitous in society, particularly regarding interac­tion between an academic environ­ment and the outside world. Starting in July, Colgate will welcome Debra Townsend as its new Vice President for Communications.

Townsend is currently the Prin­cipal for Communications at De­mand, which is a consulting firm whose clients are both educational institutions and charity and health care groups.

Prior to this position, Townsend was the head of the news operations of the Michigan State Senate. She has also been affiliated with several other colleges, such as Bates, Skidmore and Union, at which she was associated with the Communications and Public Relations Departments.

At Colgate, Townsend will be responsible for the Office of Com­munications, whose best-known presence on campus is the publica­tion of the Colgate Scene; it also publishes the university calendar, admission viewbook, university Furthermore, the Office of Com­munications is liable for Colgate’s media relations, marketing and online content.

Additionally, the Office of Com­munications advises the administra­tion on their external communica­tions, particularly in the journalistic and social media worlds. It also aids in placing Colgate-related stories in the media in the first place.

Townsend is lauded for her pub­lic relations and marketing prowess, and for her initiatives in the media and on the web. According to ad­ministrators, her collegiate experi­ence coupled with her success in alumni involvement will be an asset to the University.

“I am delighted that Debra Townsend has accepted our offer to become VP for Communica­tions,” President Jeffrey Herbst said. “Her extensive experience at many schools gives her exactly the background we need as we seek to communicate Colgate’s many ad­vantages and further improve our web presence.”