Radford University selects new associate vice president of University Relations

Becky Brackin, director of communications and marketing at Angelo State University (ASU) in San Angelo, Texas, has been selected as the next associate vice president of University Relations at Radford University. Brackin, who joined ASU as its first director of community relations and quickly became a key member of the communication leadership team, also earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from ASU in 1985.

“Becky brings experience, passion, and personality to the University that we are certain will contribute to continuity for the team while also continuing to elevate the Highlander brand nationally. We look forward to connecting her with key partners and the broader University community,” said Wendy Lowery, vice president of Advancement and University Relations.

Brackin’s appointment culminates a national search for the next associate vice president of University Relations. She joins the team during a critical moment in the University’s history that aligns with the 2018-2023 Strategic Plan. This year, Radford University launched its most ambitious fundraising campaign called TOGETHER – A Campaign for Radford University. This month, the University community broke ground on two large-scale building projects that will change the skyscape of Radford: the Artis Center for Adaptive Innovation and Creativity and The Highlander, an upscale boutique hotel. Brackin will continue leading communication and marketing strategies as the University remains a premier destination for the next generation’s leaders.

“I am thrilled to join the Highlander family,” Brackin said. “I believe the strategy for the University and the campus itself is thoughtful and sound. On a more personal level, I feel like I'm truly coming ‘home’ to a group of people who care deeply about student success and each other.”

Housed in the Office of University Relations and reporting to the vice president for Advancement and University Relations, Brackin will serve the critical role of chief communications officer and marketing strategist for Radford University. She will be responsible for overall communication and research-based messaging, as well as marketing and branding activity for the University. Brackin will oversee all aspects of the development and dissemination of the University’s public messaging, including branding, marketing and advertising; public and media relations; publications and creative services; and digital and social media strategy in close collaboration with all University Relations professionals.

“Becky’s knowledge of and experience in higher education will be valuable to our team as we continue to move forward,” said Tom Lillard ’79, associate vice president for University Advancement and chair of the search committee. “Her passion, dedication and determination will help our team continue to succeed and achieve recognition, on campus and beyond.”

While at ASU, Brackin led her team to produce award-winning recruiting materials and marketing campaigns in both print and digital categories. She led ASU’s web team through a complete redesign of the main website in 2020. She has served on the SACS-COC reaccreditation and QEP teams, staff senate and president’s cabinet. Before joining ASU, Brackin was president and publisher of the San Angelo Standard-Times daily newspaper.

“I'm eager to start building new relationships and working with this talented team of professionals. I'm also excited about exploring and learning more about this beautiful part of the country,” Brackin said.

Brackin will start at Radford University on June 25, 2021.