Albuquerque, October 14, 2025
The University of New Mexico has appointed Ben Cloutier as the new head of communications, effective October 14, 2025. With over 15 years of experience in higher education branding, Cloutier will oversee media relations, digital strategy, and crisis communications. This strategic change aims to enhance UNM’s public image and support its growth initiatives by effectively engaging diverse stakeholders and amplifying the university’s stories of innovation and community impact.
Albuquerque, NM – University of New Mexico Appoints New Head of Communications
Albuquerque, NM – The University of New Mexico has named Ben Cloutier as its new head of communications, with the appointment taking effect on October 14, 2025. This leadership change comes at a pivotal time for the institution, as it seeks to strengthen its public image and manage growing internal and external communications needs.
Cloutier brings extensive experience to the role, having spent over 15 years in higher education branding at a major public relations firm in Denver. His background equips him to handle key responsibilities, including overseeing media relations, digital strategy, and crisis communications. These areas are critical as UNM navigates complex challenges and opportunities in a competitive academic landscape.
In his new position, Cloutier will lead efforts to highlight the university’s achievements in innovation and community impact. This focus aligns with UNM’s ongoing growth initiatives, which aim to expand enrollment, enhance research output, and foster stronger ties with diverse stakeholders such as students, faculty, alumni, and local communities.
UNM President Brenda Evans has expressed support for the appointment, emphasizing Cloutier’s ability to engage varied audiences effectively. Evans highlighted how his expertise will support the university’s strategic goals amid its expansion efforts. Under Cloutier’s guidance, UNM’s communications team is expected to adopt more proactive approaches to storytelling and stakeholder outreach, ensuring the institution’s narratives reach wider audiences through traditional and digital channels.
Cloutier’s Professional Background
Before joining UNM, Cloutier worked at a prominent PR firm in Denver, where he specialized in branding for educational institutions. Over his 15-year career, he has managed high-profile campaigns that boosted visibility for universities facing similar growth phases. His portfolio includes developing digital platforms that increased engagement rates and crafting media strategies during periods of institutional change.
Cloutier’s move to UNM represents a return to direct higher education leadership, building on his previous roles where he advised on communication frameworks for academic programs. His experience in Denver involved collaborating with diverse groups, including policymakers, donors, and media outlets, skills that will directly translate to UNM’s diverse student body and regional partnerships.
Implications for UNM’s Communications Strategy
The appointment signals a shift toward more integrated communications at UNM. With responsibilities spanning media relations, digital strategy, and crisis management, Cloutier will play a central role in shaping how the university responds to public inquiries and promotes its initiatives. For instance, digital strategy enhancements could involve modernizing social media presence and leveraging data analytics to tailor messages to specific demographics.
Crisis communications, a key pillar of the role, becomes increasingly important as universities deal with issues like campus safety, policy changes, and public controversies. Cloutier’s prior work in this area suggests he will prioritize rapid response protocols and transparent information dissemination to maintain trust with stakeholders.
UNM’s growth initiatives, which include new academic programs and infrastructure developments, will benefit from heightened visibility. Cloutier’s emphasis on amplifying stories of innovation could spotlight research breakthroughs, student success stories, and community outreach efforts, potentially attracting more funding and partnerships.
Context of UNM’s Broader Landscape
The University of New Mexico, located in Albuquerque, serves as a major educational and research hub in the Southwest. With a student population exceeding 25,000, it offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across fields like health sciences, engineering, and arts. The institution has been undergoing significant expansion, including recent grants for special education training and events like the “Cuddle a Canine” program to support student well-being.
This appointment occurs amid other university developments, such as new hires in key areas and athletic achievements, including updates on the UNM Lobos basketball team. Cloutier’s role will intersect with these elements, ensuring consistent messaging across all platforms.
Overall, Ben Cloutier’s appointment as head of communications strengthens UNM’s capacity to communicate its mission and accomplishments. As the university continues to grow, his leadership will be instrumental in fostering connections and addressing challenges head-on.
FAQ
What is the new role at the University of New Mexico?
Ben Cloutier has been appointed as the new head of communications at the University of New Mexico, effective October 14, 2025.
What experience does Ben Cloutier bring to UNM?
Ben Cloutier brings 15 years of experience in higher education branding from a major PR firm in Denver.
What are the key responsibilities of the head of communications at UNM?
The role involves overseeing media relations, digital strategy, and crisis communications.
Why was Ben Cloutier appointed to this position?
His expertise in engaging diverse stakeholders supports UNM’s growth initiatives, as noted by President Brenda Evans.
What is the focus of Cloutier’s work at UNM?
The focus is on amplifying UNM’s stories of innovation and impact.
Key Features of the Appointment
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Appointee | Ben Cloutier |
| Position | Head of Communications at UNM |
| Effective Date | October 14, 2025 |
| Prior Experience | 15 years in higher education branding at a major PR firm in Denver |
| Main Responsibilities | Overseeing media relations, digital strategy, and crisis communications |
| Focus Areas | Amplifying stories of innovation and impact |
| Supporting Context | Supports UNM’s growth initiatives with expertise in engaging diverse stakeholders |
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