09/11/2024 Alumni McMurry News

Katelyn & Laura

McMurry University is excited to announce a leadership transition within the Division of Institutional Advancement, as two alumnae take on new roles to foster a highly engaged and supportive community for McMurry.  

Katelyn Coll Scott ’97 has been appointed associate vice president of strategic communication and marketing, effective July 15, 2024. Reporting to the vice president of institutional advancement, Katelyn will lead efforts to bolster the McMurry brand, share the McMurry story, and guide strategic initiatives that elevate McMurry’s reputation and visibility.   

With a B.A. in Communication from McMurry, Katelyn brings 20 years of experience as a marketing and communications professional in non-profit organizations and higher education institutions, including University of Illinois and University of Cincinnati. Her extensive expertise in leading creative teams, managing marketing and communications, supporting development and fundraising initiatives, planning events, and delivering high-quality print and digital media will significantly benefit McMurry.   

“Katelyn’s extensive marketing and communications experience has made her an invaluable asset to McMurry,” said Vice President for Institutional Advancement Mike Hutchison. “Since returning to McMurry in 2021, Katelyn has driven improvements in communication, volunteering, and experiential opportunities for the McMurry alumni community and orchestrated the largest Homecoming event in McMurry’s history. Her strategic vision and dedication will now enhance McMurry’s broader communications and marketing efforts.”  

As Katelyn steps into her new role, McMurry is pleased to welcome Laura Beard King as the new director for alumni engagement. A 1999 alumna with a B.S. in Education and 17 years of teaching experience, Laura has most recently served as the executive director of Young Audiences of Abilene, where she enriched the lives of Abilene’s youth through educational arts programs. Her background in education and leadership, combined with her enthusiasm for McMurry, makes her exceptionally well-suited to pick up where Katelyn left off.  

“I am confident that the Office of Alumni Engagement remains in capable hands with Laura, who is well-respected in the Abilene leadership community and understands McMurry’s unique culture and traditions,” said Hutchison. “She’s the leader we need to continue the University’s efforts to cultivate strong relationships with its alumni and enhance the McMurry experience for future generations.” 

Contact

Nicholas Ocheltree, Director of Integrated Communications
ocheltree.nick@mcm.edu
325-260-3963