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Langston University (LU) invites confidential inquiries, nominations, and applications for the Director of Public Relations position. The Director of Public Relations reports directly to the Vice President of Operations and is responsible for designing and implementing an overall internal and external communications strategy aimed at advancing the University’s mission, educating the public, and cultivating support from the community.

Langston University is Oklahoma’s only Historically Black College or University (HBCU). Known for its dedication to students, faculty, and administration Langston University places a premium on growth and development while extending its purpose and mission to include a more diverse body of students and internal constituents. Langston University, a public 1890 Land-Grant University, offers 36 degree programs from the associate level through the doctoral ranks. The University has approximately 2,000 students. There is a rich legacy of serving the majority of its traditionally aged students in the rural setting of its Langston campus located east of Guthrie, Oklahoma.  The University also accommodates adult learners and those accustomed to a metropolitan environment in its Oklahoma City and Tulsa campuses. Langston University also offers a Nursing program in Ardmore, Oklahoma serving students in southern Oklahoma and north Texas.

The Director of Public Relations serves as chief public information officer and marketing strategist for Langston University. The Director also builds and maintains a positive image of the University among its various constituencies and assists in maintaining and building student enrollment and retention. Additionally, the Director will coordinate and oversee all aspects of public relations, serving as the University’s chief spokesperson and presenting a compelling image of the University’s goals and accomplishments.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS 

• Bachelor’s degree in Journalism, Strategic Communications, Technical Writing, or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in integrated communications, media, or PR environment in a senior role
• Ability to develop and execute multi-platform communications strategies in a timely manner
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, interpersonal skills, analytical reasoning, and organizational skills.

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• 5+ years of experience in a senior communications role, preferably in higher education.
• Master’s degree in Journalism, Strategic Communications, Technical Writing, or related field.
• Working knowledge with content management software (CMS).
• Basic Adobe Creative Suite skills.
• Proficiency in email platforms like Constant Contact, Mail Chimp, etc.
• Proven ability to build social media, website, and messaging engagement.
• A strong commitment to fostering community/university collaboration and partnerships.
• Effectively manage multiple communication projects across various departments and academic schools.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, interpersonal skills, analytical reasoning, and organizational skills.
• Must be able to work independently and meet deadlines. Demonstrated ability to work cooperatively and strategically in a team environment with all levels of professional, technical, and administrative staff to integrate resources in a timely and organized manner.

APPLICATION AND NOMINATION PROCESS

Academic Search is partnering with Langston University for this search. Those who are considering applying are encouraged to schedule a confidential conversation with Dr. Alonzo DeCarlo, the Senior Consultant leading this search, by emailing Alonzo.decarlo@academicsearch.org or scheduling a conversation by utilizing his online calendar.

To apply, a candidate should attach these four separate PDF documents to an email addressed to LangstonPR@academicsearch.org –

• A detailed letter of interest addressing the leadership agenda and qualifications as outlined in this profile;
• A full resume/curriculum vitae with relevant administrative responsibilities and accomplishments;
• A Statement of Contributions to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion; and
• A list of five professional references, including names, titles, organizations, phone numbers, and email addresses, noting the candidate’s relationship for each reference.

Note: References will not be contacted until later in the search process and only with the candidate’s permission. A background check (including identity, degree verification, and criminal records check) must be completed satisfactorily before any candidate can be offered this position.

Review of materials will begin immediately and continue until the appointment is made. For full consideration, please submit materials by February 13, 2023. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

Please submit nominations by sending an email to LangstonPR@academicsearch.org. Be sure to include the position for which you are submitting the nomination, the nominee’s full name, position, institution/organization, and importantly, an email address so that we can contact the prospective candidate.