Smith College President Kathleen McCartney has appointed Julia Yager as the college’s vice president for college relations and communications.

Her appointment is effective January 1, 2021.

In announcing the appointment, McCartney said, “After meeting Julia, via Zoom, I knew she would be a great fit for Smith because she understands the strength of women’s colleges. She will bring many skills to her new role with her background in strategic communication, marketing and crisis management. I look forward to welcoming her to the president’s cabinet.”

A strategic consultant passionate about communications focused on values and building relationships, Yager has been helping mission-driven organizations in higher ed and the arts sharpen their messaging to deliver on strategic goals.

Yager spent 20 years at Public Radio International (PRI) in Minneapolis, Minnesota, serving in a number of marketing roles, most recently senior vice president for marketing, sales and distribution. In those roles, she established the organization’s brand framework and managed its communications and marketing.

Yager also served as the director of marketing communications for GE Capital Mortgage Insurance Corporation and as an account coordinator for McKinney and Silver Advertising. She holds a bachelor’s degree in public policy studies from Duke University and a master of business administration degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

In her new role as vice president, Yager will serve as a key member of the president’s cabinet, providing strategic thought leadership to the college and leading communications strategies to inform and inspire people about the impact Smith students, alumnae and faculty are having in Northampton and around the world.

“I know first-hand how the liberal arts inspire the curiosity, empathy and resiliency needed to succeed,” said Yager. “I believe the role Smith plays in educating its students to lead according to their individual passions and purpose is essential in today’s complex world. I am thrilled to join President McCartney’s cabinet and the rest of the Smith community to amplify the college’s voice and strengthen the network of those dedicated to its mission.”

Yager succeeds Samuel Masinter, associate vice president for college relations, who served as the interim vice president for public affairs since September 2019.