Western ND News

Dickinson State University has announced the formation of the Office of Marketing and Communications (OMC), which replaces the former Office of University Relations. The OMC will focus on strategic marketing, internal communication, and external engagement to support the university’s overall mission.

The new office aligns with President Scott Molander’s goal to improve DSU’s marketing and communications across various platforms. A key objective is to boost student recruitment by strengthening digital marketing strategies and expanding the university’s presence on social media.

“Strengthening our marketing and communications is a critical step in advancing the mission of Dickinson State,” said President Molander. “This transition positions us to tell the DSU story with greater clarity and impact, both within our community and across a broader digital landscape.”

Kierra Mathern has been named Interim Director of Marketing, Communications, and Alumni Relations. Mathern, a Dickinson native and DSU graduate, previously worked at the DSU Heritage Foundation (DSU HF) where she contributed to improving its marketing efforts while earning her MBA and Master of Entrepreneurship degrees.

“Kierra has always shown a deep commitment to DSU and a clear talent for strategic communication,” said Ty Orton, Executive Director of the DSU HF. “Her work ethic, creativity, and passion for the university made a lasting impact here, and I’m confident she’ll continue to elevate DSU in her new role.”

Mathern recently served as Interim Director of Strategic Initiatives and Events at DSU while continuing her work at the foundation. She now leads OMC in her interim role.

“It’s an exciting time to be at Dickinson State,” said Mathern. “With the launch of the Office of Marketing and Communications, we have a unique opportunity to tell DSU’s story in a more strategic, authentic, and impactful way.”

Other staff members include Elena Stickel as Brand Manager. Stickel graduated from DSU after arriving on a volleyball scholarship. She has worked at DSU for over 15 years in several roles before joining marketing as a graphic designer and advancing to Brand Manager in 2024.

Hannah Dunham joins as Communication and Social Media Specialist. A Baylor University graduate with experience in digital marketing strategy from private industry, Dunham aims to produce content that highlights academic programs while growing engagement online.

Josh Nichols becomes Director of Digital Process Improvement after serving nearly two decades at DSU in various capacities including TRiO programs, esports coordination, University Relations leadership, among others. In his new position he will focus on modernizing operations through technology integration.

To further support its goals, OMC added one part-time writer for storytelling efforts about campus milestones. Additionally, a Digital Media Specialist was hired jointly with Admissions to develop content targeting prospective students across digital channels.

With these changes—new staff roles focused on brand management; expanded social media activity; process improvements; additional writing capacity—the OMC seeks greater visibility for Dickinson State University throughout campus life as well as regionally via digital platforms.