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Susan Munson
Director of Communications at St. John's School
Professional Background
Susan Munson is a distinguished communications professional with over two decades of extensive experience in various educational institutions and organizations. With a strong background in marketing and communications, she has been instrumental in enhancing institutional brands and cultivating community engagement. Susan currently serves as the Director of Communications at St. John's School, where she has held various leadership roles, including Interim Director and Associate Director of Communications, showcasing her deep commitment to the school and its mission.
Her journey in education-based communications began at St. John's School, where she started as an Alumni Coordinator, helping to foster relationships with former students and create networks that benefit both the alumni community and the school. This foundational role propelled her into various prestigious positions, where she enhanced her skills in strategy, outreach, and stakeholder engagement.
Before her influential tenure at St. John's School, Susan made significant contributions to St. Mark's Episcopal School as the Director of Development. In this capacity, she was key in overseeing fundraising initiatives that supported the school’s programs and infrastructure. Her strategic thinking and ability to connect with donors played a vital role in advancing the school's development goals.
Further back in her career, Susan honed her executive recruitment skills at Boyden as a Senior Associate and gained valuable insights into organizational effectiveness while serving in the Industrial Practice group at Heidrick & Struggles. These experiences have equipped her with a unique vantage point to navigate the complexities of communication within an academic context, making her a pivotal figure in her current role.
Education and Achievements
Susan's educational background laid a solid foundation for her professional achievements. She earned a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Rice University's esteemed Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Management, where she developed advanced strategic and financial acumen applicable in various business contexts. Before that, she obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) in Marketing from Southern Methodist University’s Cox School of Business, providing her with essential marketing skills that she has leveraged throughout her career.
Additionally, her early educational journey began at St. John's School, where she fostered not only academic excellence but also a lifelong connection to the institution that has shaped her professional trajectory.
Notable Contributions
Throughout her career, Susan has demonstrated excellence in several key areas:
- Leadership in Communication: As Director of Communications, she has strategically positioned St. John's School within the community, effectively conveying the school’s mission and values to various stakeholders.
- Fundraising Initiatives: At St. Mark's Episcopal School, her directorial role in development underscores her expertise in fundraising, highlighting her ability to build relationships and create sustainable financial support for educational initiatives.
- Community Engagement: Susan’s initiatives at St. John's have strengthened community ties, enhancing the school’s connection with families, alumni, and local organizations.
- Executive Search Experience: Her background in executive recruitment and organizational development has informed her strategic approach in communications, ensuring that the messaging aligns with broader institutional goals.
Susan's unique blend of skills in marketing, communications, and educational leadership make her not just a seasoned professional but also a valued leader within her organizations. Her dedication to the mission of education, along with her tenure in various relevant positions, truly embodies the spirit of collaboration and innovation needed to thrive in today's educational landscape.
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