Strategic Communications

Strategic Communications fortifies an integrated pipeline of positioning and brand journalism, internal communications, executive communications, and media outreach content that collectively lays the foundation for the University’s overall marketing and branding strategies. 

This group comprises: Internal Communications & Publications, News & Media Relations, and Executive Communications. Strategic Communications is also responsible for leading the University’s issues management and crisis communications response. 

News & Media Relations

The News & Media Relations team collaborates with deans, faculty, and senior University leaders to enhance the University’s brand and reputation by showcasing thought leadership, faculty expertise, and research, while promoting noteworthy stories to the public through national and local media coverage. This team also prepares faculty and leadership for interviews by providing media training. Additionally, by managing issues and crisis communications, News & Media Relations helps protect the University's brand. This team also considers external filming requests on behalf of the University.

Internal Communications & Publications

The Internal Communications & Publications team deploys owned media in traditional and digital channels and a data-driven understanding of Drexel’s audiences to create cohesive storytelling that highlights Drexel’s academic strengths and research achievements, while emphasizing the value and potential of the experiential education model. Through engaging content, the team brings Drexel’s value proposition to life for our various internal audiences.

Executive Communications

Executive Communications positions key administrators as thought leaders through opinion pieces, raises the University’s profile, and ensures a timely and responsive voice of leadership.

Niki Gianakaris

Niki Gianakaris

Vice President, Strategic Communications
Britt Faulstick Headshot

Britt Faulstick

Executive Director, News & Media Relations
News & Media Relations
Sonja Sherwood headshot

Sonja Sherwood

Executive Director, Internal Communications & Publications
Internal Communications & Publications