Shawna Connor, Viola, began service as interim director of marketing and communications at the University of Wisconsin-Richland on July 7.

Connor is responsible for developing and implementing the campus marketing plan, overseeing all media communications and media relations, development of campus publications, advertising, social media, budgeting, photography and more. 

She brings to the position more than 15 years of experience as the owner of a marketing and communications consulting firm. Connor has a bachelor’s degree in radio & television from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, and a master’s degree in integrated marketing communication from the University of Denver. Connor returned to Wisconsin from Colorado four years ago with her husband and children and says she has quickly re-acclimated to the frigid winters and humid summers she remembers from her youth in the Burlington area. 

UW-Richland began a search for an interim director of marketing and communications when long-term director Dorothy Thompson announced her retirement.

UW-Richland CEO/Dean Dr. Patrick Hagen said, “There are tremendous shoes to fill in the replacement of Dorothy Thompson on our campus. The entire staff and I look forward to acclimating Ms. Connor to this role and appreciate the wealth of experience she brings.” 

For more information, contact Connor by e-mail at shawna.connor@uwc.edu or by calling the campus at (608) 647-6186, Extension 231.