Southern Illinois University Edwardsville Chancellor James T. Minor, Ph.D., has named academic marketing and communications expert Kedra Tolson as the university's executive director of marketing and communications following a nationwide search. Tolson will take over on Wednesday, December 7.
Tolson returned to his alma mater to lead a team of seasoned creative professionals tasked with strengthening the SIUE brand, improving enrollment marketing and strengthening community ties. Tolson will also play a key role in driving communications related to the university's important strategic plan and fundraising campaigns.
“This is an exciting season for SIUE. I believe Kedra will be an important contributor to our growth as we take bold steps to build our future,” said Minor. "Kedra's extensive experience in higher education has helped develop a student-centered approach that aligns with our mission to transform the lives of people from all walks of life."
Tolson spent more than ten years in St. Louis. Louis Community College, most recently serving as the Executive Director of Marketing and Communications since 2016, and was previously the Community Information and Marketing Coordinator for the Florissant Valley Campus from 2010 to 2016.
Additional experience includes a year as Communications Manager at Jazz St. Louis (2008-2009) and five years as media relations manager at the University of Missouri-St. Louis (2003-2008).
"I have devoted most of my career to higher education and am very interested in working to enhance the value and academic quality of SIUE," Tolson said. "ASTU is a world-class institution that provides comprehensive professional education to students in the region. I look forward to working with campus members and the community. I look forward to working with the team to find new ways to tell the SIUE story.”
Tolson received his bachelor's degree in mass communication from SIUE in 1994. He holds a master's degree in management and leadership from Webster University. Tolson is actively involved in various public organizations. He currently volunteers as a member of St. Louis ArtWorks, Webster Arts and St. Capital Press Club. louse
