May 15, 2014

Dear Faculty and Staff –

Today, our University takes another significant step forward with the formation of a Cabinet-level unit that focuses on communication and marketing. The former Department of University Marketing and Communication will become the Division of University Marketing and Media Relations. Under this realignment, University Marketing and Media Relations will move from the Division of University Advancement to report directly to the Office of the President. This will allow both units to operate in a more focused way, serving the University with greater efficiency and effectiveness.

Along with this move, I have promoted Richie C. Hunter to vice president of University Marketing and Media Relations. In this role, the scope and responsibilities assigned to her will expand, and she is part of my leadership team as a member of the President's Cabinet and the Council of Vice Presidents.

I want to acknowledge and thank Eloise Stuhr, vice president for University Advancement, for bringing Richie to the University and introducing such a strong leader to UH. Richie joined us in November 2013 as associate vice chancellor for marketing and communication and associate vice president for marketing and communication. She arrived as a well-recognized leader in strategic marketing, brand development, integrated communication and business strategy. She has provided immediate effective and strategic leadership for numerous high-profile initiatives involving the University, the UH community and the UH System. Richie will continue to be responsible for the full articulation, development and implementation of integrated marketing and communication strategies, including brand vision and national media initiatives.

Under Richie's leadership, the Division of University Marketing and Media Relations will continue to make great strides in enhancing the University's image and reputation. I am confident this transformational undertaking will strengthen the trajectory of the University of Houston.

With warm regards,

Renu Khator