About
The communications and marketing team in Student Affairs leads both internal and external efforts for Carolina’s largest student-facing division, serving more than 30,000 undergraduate, graduate, and professional students each year. Working closely with University Communications and Marketing, the team develops and implements strategic communications plans for the 16 departments within Student Affairs to advance student thriving and success.
Our work spans strategic planning, targeted outreach, and content creation across a variety of platforms. The team also manages Hello Heels, UNC-Chapel Hill’s all-in-one mobile app for students, families, faculty, staff, and visitors. We lead strategic initiatives in media relations, brand management, editorial development, photography, videography, and more.
As communications advisors to the Student Affairs leadership team, we provide strategic guidance and produce messaging that strengthens connections among students, staff, and the broader campus community. Our student-centered approach combines compelling visuals, creative storytelling, and integrated marketing strategies to ensure that Tar Heels feel informed, connected, and engaged with their Carolina experience.
With more than 30 years of combined experience, the Student Affairs communications and marketing team includes Elizabeth Poindexter, Sara Stahlman, and Sydney Johnson. Together, they collaborate with nearly two dozen departmental communicators who extend these efforts across the division.
Connect with us
Branding
In addition to supporting the University’s logo system and brand identity, our team maintains branded templates for presentations to internal and external audiences. If you are presenting to a major external group — such as the UNC Board of Trustees, UNC Board of Governors, or UNC Board of Visitors — please contact us for support with messaging and presentation design. We provide a PowerPoint template to help you get started, as well as department-specific templates for Student Affairs units.
Content creation and production
We support communicators through all stages of content development, from planning and best practices to production requests and resource sharing.
Events
Our team promotes Student Affairs events and offers guidance and expertise for both in-person and virtual programs.
Fundraising
We collaborate closely with the University Development Office to support fundraising initiatives across Student Affairs.
Hello Heels mobile app
Our team manages and curates content for the Hello Heels mobile app.
Media relations
If you receive a media inquiry from any reporter — including student journalists — please contact the Student Affairs communications team or University Communications and Marketing before responding.
Owned media
From website development and e-newsletter best practices to social media strategy, our team provides guidance and support for all Student Affairs communicators.
Special projects
We spearhead special projects that advance University-wide initiatives and institutional priorities.
Storytelling
Our team helps identify and develop compelling stories that highlight the impact of Student Affairs, focusing on newsworthiness and authentic student voices.
Strategic planning
We lead a comprehensive communications strategy for the division of Student Affairs, aligning our work with University goals and values.
