Elevating the DSU Brand: New Office of Marketing and Communications Announced
Dickinson State University has launched the Office of Marketing and Communications (OMC), replacing the former Office of University Relations. The OMC will focus on three key initiatives: strategic marketing, internal communication, and external engagement.
The creation of OMC supports President Scott Molander’s vision to strengthen DSU’s marketing and communication efforts across all platforms. OMC will play a critical role in student recruitment by enhancing digital marketing initiatives and expanding the university’s social media presence.
“Strengthening our marketing and communications is a critical step in advancing the mission of Dickinson State,” said President Molander. “This transition positions us to tell the DSU story with greater clarity and impact, both within our community and across a broader digital landscape.”
Meet the Staff
Kierra Mathern, MBA, ME – Interim Director of Marketing, Communications, and Alumni Relations
A Dickinson native, Mathern graduated from DSU with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication. She worked at the DSU Heritage Foundation (DSU HF) while completing her degree and later accepted a full-time position as Alumni Relations and Event Coordinator. During her time at DSU HF, she strengthened the Foundation’s marketing and brand visibility while she finished both a Master of Business Administration and a Master of Entrepreneurship degree.
“Kierra has always shown a deep commitment to DSU and a clear talent for strategic communication,” said Ty Orton, Executive Director of the DSU HF. “Her work ethic, creativity, and passion for the university made a lasting impact here, and I’m confident she’ll continue to elevate DSU in her new role.”
This spring, Mathern served as DSU’s Interim Director of Strategic Initiatives and Events while continuing her role at the DSU HF. She now leads the Office of Marketing, Communications, and Alumni Relations in her interim appointment.
“It’s an exciting time to be at Dickinson State,” said Mathern. “With the launch of the Office of Marketing and Communications, we have a unique opportunity to tell DSU’s story in a more strategic, authentic, and impactful way.”
Elena Stickel – Brand Manager
Stickel arrived at DSU on a volleyball scholarship and graduated with a Bachelor of Business Administration with minors in Office Administration and Graphic Design. Her coursework with Professor Rolf Butz sparked a passion for design that shaped her career.
She has served DSU for over 15 years in a variety of roles, including Conference Coordinator in the Office of Extended Campus and Interim Director of Institutional Research. Stickel joined the university’s marketing department as a graphic designer and advanced to Brand Manager in 2024. In this position, she ensures DSU’s brand is consistently represented and held to the highest standards. She is excited about the future of the office, particularly as it relates to strengthening and evolving DSU’s visual identity.
Hannah Dunham – Communication and Social Media Specialist
A Baylor University graduate with a strong background in digital marketing strategy, Dunham brings valuable experience from the private sector. At DSU, she focuses on producing authentic, student-centered content that highlights the academic excellence and unique culture of the university. She looks forward to growing DSU’s digital presence and enhancing engagement across all social media platforms.
Josh Nichols – Director of Digital Process Improvement
Josh Nichols, a 2007 computer science graduate of Dickinson State University, has served the institution in a variety of roles over the past 18 years. His experience spans TRiO, the Strom Center, University Relations, and serving as DSU’s Esports coordinator. As part of the recent transition, Nichols has moved from his role as Interim Director of University Relations into a newly created position focused on strategic projects and digital process improvement. In this role, he will work to streamline and modernize DSU’s operations while supporting university-wide initiatives to improve efficiency and integrate emerging technologies.
Expanding the Team
To support its expanded vision, OMC has added one part-time writer who will contribute to storytelling and media efforts, helping to share DSU’s milestones, achievements, and events with the broader community.
In a coordinated effort with Admissions, an added Digital Media Specialist will assist both OMC and the Office of Admissions in building authentic, engaging content across digital platforms, with a focus on prospective student outreach.
With a dynamic and skilled team and a bold new direction, the Office of Marketing and Communications is positioned to enhance DSU’s visibility, foster growth, and strengthen community connections. OMC will shape the university’s narrative across campus, the region, and the digital landscape.