Paulsen named chief communication and marketing officer

Teresa Paulsen has been named chief communication and marketing officer at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Chancellor Ronnie Green announced July 28.

Paulsen, previously vice president for communication and external relations at ConAgra Foods in Omaha, will begin her new role at the university on Aug. 8.

An experienced strategist in communications, marketing and public relations, Paulsen will direct the Office of University Communications, the university’s central public voice, as well as lead communication and marketing strategies across the university.

“Teresa is a highly regarded communications professional who has a proven track record of guiding unified, exceptionally branded communications to achieve organizational goals,” Green said. “In getting to know Teresa and learning about her inclusive and enthusiastic approach, I am confident her knowledge, vision and judgment will help raise communications across the university to another level.”

As a university leader and member of the chancellor’s senior team, the chief communication and marketing officer unites university leaders, campus communicators and other partners to achieve shared goals. The chief communication and marketing officer leads university efforts in strategic marketing, news and issues management, public relations, photography, broadcast services, brand management, digital and social media and special events.

“I’m excited to help the university continue to build its well-deserved reputation as a top university,” Paulsen said. “Joining a team made up of such talented and passionate people — across faculty, staff and students — is a true honor.”

A fifth-generation Nebraskan, Paulsen earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Nebraska and a master’s degree in communication from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. At ConAgra, Paulsen oversaw all aspects of external and internal communication for the Fortune 200 company. She initiated the development and execution of the company’s first social media strategy and digital communication program, led a major rebranding effort and was the company’s top spokesperson and media-relations strategist.

Prior to her 12-year tenure with ConAgra, Paulsen worked with Corporate Express (now part of Staples), Kirkham Michael Consulting Engineers and the Nebraska Department of Economic Development.

“Teresa is a great fit for our university, as is her clear vision of how she can help UNL build upon the progress in our communication and branding efforts,” Green said. “We are delighted to have her at the helm of our communication enterprise. The university’s brand is in great hands.”

Paulsen succeeds Meg Lauerman, who retired June 30 after directing University Communications for 15 years. Paulsen lives in Omaha with her husband and two teenage daughters.