The University of Utah welcomes Chris Nelson as the new communications director, effective March 27.

With more than 20 years of creating and executing strategies to help the University of Utah advance, Nelson has extensive experience in strategic and crisis communication, media relations, organizational message development, content marketing and fundraising strategy. He currently serves as the executive director of the University of Utah Hospital Foundation where he is a member of the hospital’s executive leadership team responsible for fundraising and community engagement. For ten years, he served in various capacities for the Office of Public Affairs for University of Utah Health Care, including assistant vice president, where he founded “The Scope, University of Utah Health Sciences Radio.”

“Chris’ institutional knowledge and experience in innovative communication tactics will be a great addition to the university’s communications team,” said William Warren, chief marketing and communications officer. “In his multiple roles here at the U, he has proven to be an excellent team leader and strategist.”

“The University of Utah is a remarkable community resource that has a profound impact on our state’s economic and cultural health,” said Nelson. “As a proud graduate of the U, I’ve benefitted first-hand from faculty who challenged my way of thinking and taught me how to think critically. I look forward to working with the U’s administration, faculty, staff, students and alumni to continue finding innovative ways to share the message and work of this important institution—both locally and nationally.”

Nelson holds bachelor degrees in mass communication and political science from the U along with a Master of Public Administration from the U. He is a recipient of the U’s Quintus C. Wilson Alumni Award from the Department of Communication.

Nelson can be reached at 801-585-9244. 

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