Lawrence University has announced the appointment of Craig L. Gagnon as associate vice president of communications. He joins the college to begin his duties on Feb. 6.
Gagnon earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Lawrence in 1976 and a master’s degree in communications from Syracuse University.
During his 30-year career, Gagnon has held leadership positions in national and international integrated marketing communications firms in Chicago, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, Minneapolis and Milwaukee.
Since 2008, he has owned his own brand development and marketing strategy firm in Cedarburg, providing research-driven strategic planning for businesses in a variety of industries.
“We recognize that the Lawrence reputation is a powerful and valuable asset that supports the institution’s educational mission as well as our admissions and development goals,” said President Jill Beck. “That’s why we’ve sought an individual with the depth of experience that Craig provides.”
Gagnon credited his Lawrence education for setting the foundation for his career success.
“The Lawrence model of individualized learning and liberal education prepared me to work confidently in a number of industries and adapt to a rapidly changing communications world,” said Gagnon. “The lessons I learned at the Lawrence London Center helped prepare me for international business and my work on The Lawrentian and at WLFM formed the basis of my work in media.
“I’m delighted that I can apply nearly 30 years of experience in integrated marketing communications in support of the university I love,” he added. “My Lawrence years definitely set the stage for an exciting career. I owe it a great deal and I look forward to repaying Lawrence for all it gave me as a student.”
Gagnon’s appointment comes in the wake of a new 10-year Strategic Plan launched by the college and designed, in part, to enhance Lawrence’s national profile and reputation and raise visibility for the college’s distinctive characteristics and areas of excellence.
The current president of the Milwaukee chapter of the American Marketing Association, Gagnon served on the Lawrence University Alumni Association from 1989-95 and is a former president of the LUAA Board.
About Lawrence University
Founded in 1847, Lawrence University uniquely integrates a college of liberal arts and sciences with a world-class conservatory of music, both devoted exclusively to undergraduate education. Ranked among America’s best colleges, it was selected for inclusion in the book “Colleges That Change Lives: 40 Schools That Will Change the Way You Think About College.” Individualized learning, the development of multiple interests and community engagement are central to the Lawrence experience. Lawrence draws its 1,445 students from 44 states and 35 countries.
