WATERVILLE — Ruth Jacobs Jackson, most recently assistant vice president for communications at Colby College, has been promoted to vice president for communications, effective April 15.

A longtime employee of the College, Jackson has contributed immeasurably to the success of the communications efforts, according to a press release, and has been leading the Communications Office since August of 2014.

“Ruth Jackson is the perfect person for this challenging assignment,” said President David A. Greene. “She is deeply analytical, adept at synthesizing complex ideas, and a forceful advocate for Colby’s outstanding educational program.”

A graduate of Brandeis University and Columbia Graduate School of Journalism, Jackson came to Colby in 2003 as assistant director of communications for news and information. She was quickly promoted to associate director, then director, and in 2014, assistant vice president. She had previously worked as an editor at a consumer magazine and in independent school communications.

“I was drawn to Colby because it does such an exceptional job at educating young people and preparing them to make a positive impact on the world. I stayed because the community is like no other—intellectual, collaborative, and kind,” said Jackson. “I am eager to take on this new role because, under the leadership of President Greene, we are already on our way to making Colby more accessible to the most highly qualified students from all kinds of backgrounds. I am honored to play a role in that effort.”

As vice president for communications, Jackson will act as the College’s chief communications officer, providing vision, direction, and leadership for the College’s internal and external communications. She will oversee the strategic planning behind, and the development and creation of, Colby’s communications and marketing programs, including the website, Colby Magazine, advancement and admissions materials, media relations, social media, and internal communications. As she has over the years, Jackson will collaborate closely with members of the community to effectively communicate the College’s story.

“Ruth has a proven record of collaborating with faculty to identify and craft the stories that best represent the academic program,” said Provost and Dean of Faculty Lori Kletzer. “The breadth of her expertise, along with her honest enthusiasm for liberal learning, make her the right choice for Colby at this important time.”

A native of Farmington, Maine, Jackson returned to the state in 2002 and lives in Oakland with her husband and two young sons.

Copy the Story Link