FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Mark Rushing, a veteran public relations executive and broadcast journalist, has been appointed director of strategic communications for the office of university relations at the University of Arkansas.

Rushing will begin his new position in Fayetteville on April 2.

Currently director of public relations at Little Rock-based Thoma Thoma, a prominent marketing and communications firm, Rushing will be returning to the university from which he received his bachelor’s degree in journalism in 1993. He also holds a master’s degree in journalism from the University of Memphis.

In his new role, Rushing will be a senior leader within the office of university relations, which is responsible for media relations, publications, graphic design, video production, photographic services, web services, brand management and other communication-related activities on behalf of the university. Rushing will focus primarily on ways to use communications resources and outreach activities to help advance the university’s goals and objectives.

“Mark’s 15 years of experience in journalism, public relations and strategic planning make him an ideal fit for this position,” said John N. Diamond, associate vice chancellor for university relations. “His professional achievements and numerous contacts will strengthen our ability to serve and communicate with individuals, businesses, organizations, and civic and community leaders across the state and beyond.”

"Like many Arkansans and fellow graduates, I have a great deal of pride in the University of Arkansas and what it means to the state and beyond,” Rushing said. “I couldn't ask for a more fulfilling position than working with the university relations team to ensure that the university's positive reach and impact only grows in the future." 

In addition to his six years with Thoma Thoma, Rushing’s career includes more than 11 years as a broadcast journalist with television stations in Fayetteville, Tallahassee, Fla., and Little Rock. He has received numerous broadcasting awards, including three regional Emmy Awards. Rushing has also received several national awards for projects and programs created for his clients at Thoma Thoma.

Rushing is a 1987 graduate of Fayetteville High School. He and his wife Tina have two children, Parker and Audrey.