CMU Names New VP for University Communications and Marketing

Following a comprehensive national search, Carnegie Mellon has named Nicholas Scibetta, who recently led marketing and communications for Stony Brook University, to the position of Vice President for University Communications and Marketing. Scibetta will take on his new post beginning August 16.

Scibetta is charged with formulating and executing a cohesive, comprehensive, and multi-dimensional communications strategy capable of enhancing CMU’s reputation and furthering the goals of the entire university, including its schools, colleges, units, campuses and locations worldwide.

“The goals and expectations of this critical position directly align with Nicholas’ experience leading communications and marketing in higher education, in addition to his work across many industries on the corporate and agency side. I believe that, with the depth and breadth of his past leadership roles, he is well-positioned to work with partners across CMU to amplify CMU’s reputation and impact,” said President Farnam Jahanian.

Scibetta will oversee CMU’s University Communications and Marketing Division, which includes media relations, internal communications, social media, integrated marketing, digital strategy and creative services and production. He will also foster collaboration with CMU’s colleges and schools to highlight the full scope of the university’s world-renowned education and research.

“Carnegie Mellon is a remarkable university with a rich history of innovation, creativity and societal impact. I am honored to join CMU’s leadership team and excited to work with partners across the university to shine a spotlight on the transformative and outstanding work of Tartans around the world,” Scibetta said.

Scibetta recently served as vice president for marketing and communications for Stony Brook University and Stony Brook Medicine health system, overseeing global communications, marketing, digital and social strategy, media relations, and crisis communications. During his tenure, Scibetta led the development and execution of the university’s global branding and reputation initiatives, including establishing Stony Brook’s first-ever brand platform, which resulted in award-winning campaigns.

From 1999-2015, Scibetta worked at the global public relations firm Ketchum, serving as Partner and Global Director from 2007-2015. In that role, he created and grew Ketchum’s Global Media Network to over 300 industry-leading professionals in media relations and social media, in addition to overseeing national and international communications programs for Fortune 500 clients.

The national search, which launched in March 2021, attracted an exceptionally strong and diverse pool with many highly qualified candidates. Rebecca Doerge, Glen de Vries Dean of the Mellon College of Science, and Scott Mory, Vice President for University Advancement and Interim Vice President for Marketing and Communications, served as co-chairs of the search advisory committee, which included representatives from across the university.

“I would like to thank the members of the university community who helped to inform this search processes, especially the search advisory committee who provided valuable feedback. I also wish to acknowledge and thank Scott Mory for his exceptional service as interim vice president during the transition period,” said Jahanian.