To support increasing enrollment, KU announces changes to bolster marketing


Thu, 11/11/2021

author

Erinn Barcomb-Peterson

LAWRENCE — To promote collaboration across all University of Kansas marketing that supports enrollment and the KU brand, the university is combining the Lawrence campus’s Marketing Communications unit with the marketing team that supports the Edwards Campus and Lifelong & Professional Education.

“Marketing has never been more important to the health and long-term viability of KU,” said David Cook, vice chancellor for public affairs & economic development. “Competition for new students is as fierce as ever. That means that growing our enrollment — including that of nontraditional, transfer, online and international students — is critical.”

As KU competes for state funding, research grants and new faculty and staff, enhancing the university’s reputation and prestige is increasingly beneficial, Cook said.

“Marketing contributes to the university’s prestige by highlighting the strengths and accomplishments of our students, faculty, staff, alumni, research, academics, recognitions, economic contributions, experiences, services, community, heritage and more,” he said.

Under the leadership of director Lauren Erickson, efforts from the Lawrence campus’s Marketing Communications unit have seen continued strides in enrollment — particularly that of first-time freshmen — and have resulted in the creation of KU's first comprehensive brand platform and positioning. The Lawrence marketing team has been recognized by professional organizations like the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, the American Institute of Graphic Arts and the Telly Awards.

The combining of the Lawrence and Edwards marketing teams adds the role of chief marketing officer. In this new position, Chris Gregory will usher in the first steps to enhance and expand KU’s existing strengths in marketing.

Gregory is a KU alumnus who has served the KU Edwards Campus for five years as director of marketing and public relations. In that role, he was responsible for marketing to audiences ranging from teenagers to senior citizens regarding on-campus and online degrees, certificates, short courses, events and services.

Gregory was integral in growing KU Edwards Campus enrollment by nearly 40% and supporting KU Lifelong & Professional Education.

“I look forward to building on the long tradition of KU’s excellence in academics, research, service and marketing,” Gregory said. “Fundamentally, the role of our marketing is to show off what is great about KU, and fortunately we have a lot to show.”

Thu, 11/11/2021

author

Erinn Barcomb-Peterson

Media Contacts

Erinn Barcomb-Peterson

KU News Service

785-864-8858