University of the Cumberlands Appoints Andrew Powell as Executive Vice President for Marketing and Communications

University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, Kentucky, announced the appointment of Andrew Powell as executive vice president for marketing and communications. In this expanded leadership role, Powell will continue to oversee communications, marketing, branding, and strategic messaging operations across the university.

With more than two decades of communications and marketing experience across private and government sectors, Powell brings extensive leadership experience to the role. For the past nine years, he has served as University of the Cumberlands’ Vice President of Communications and Marketing, helping strengthen the university’s institutional reputation and expand its marketing reach.

“Andrew has played an instrumental role in strengthening our institutional reputation and expanding the reach of our marketing and communications efforts, said University President Dr. Quentin Young. “In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, it is essential that we communicate our story with clarity, creativity, and purpose. Andrew understands both who we are and where we are headed. I am confident that in this expanded leadership role, he will continue to elevate our visibility, strengthen our brand, and advance the mission of the University of the Cumberlands.” 

Leadership Responsibilities at University of the Cumberlands

The Executive Vice President for Marketing and Communications leads the university’s communications strategy, brand management, marketing initiatives, and institutional messaging. In this role, Powell will oversee several core areas of the university’s strategic communications and outreach efforts, including:

• Strategic communications and brand management
• Marketing and promotional strategy
• Creative and communications operations
• Web and digital presence
• Enrollment communications
• Institutional event promotion

Powell on Advancing the University’s Story

“It’s an honor to step into this role and continue serving University of the Cumberlands. Our focus is on telling the story of this institution in ways that expand opportunities for students to strengthen the impact Cumberlands has on the communities we serve. I’m grateful to work alongside a team that is committed to moving the university forward,” shared Powell.

During his time as Vice President of Communications and Marketing at Cumberlands, Powell has spearheaded several key initiatives and wins, including:

• The launch and promotion of the Cumberlands Commitment, positioning Cumberlands as a university focused on access and value
• A full redesign and relaunch of the university website in a mobile-first format, enhancing digital presence and improving prospective student engagement
• Expanded admissions marketing infrastructure, building strategic communication funnels for prospective students, and integrating print production and mail capabilities directly into university workflow

Education and Professional Credentials

Andrew Powell holds the following degrees and certifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Communications, Union College, ‘01
• Certified Digital Marketing Professional / AMA Professional Certified Marketer in Digital Marketing, Digital Marketing Institute – American Marketing Association, ‘20

Powell brings experience across higher education, public service, and journalism, including the following leadership roles:

• Vice President of Communications and Marketing, University of the Cumberlands
• Director of College Communications, Union College
• Deputy Judge-Executive, McCreary County Fiscal Court
• Associate Editor, The McCreary County Voice 

Strengthening the Communications Strategy at University of the Cumberlands

Powell’s appointment reflects University of the Cumberlands’ continued commitment to strengthening its communications strategy and expanding the reach of its mission. As the university continues to grow and innovate in higher education, his leadership will help ensure that the story of Cumberlands’ students, faculty, and impact continues to reach audiences across the region and around the world.