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At its May 4 board meeting, the Associated Students Board of Directors voted 5-2 to approve the creation of a new AS office, the Office of Communications and Marketing. The office was approved as a two-year pilot program to be assessed by the Tactical Assessment Program at the conclusion of its second year.

The office will replace the two existing public relations positions located in the Publicity Center. The new director and assistant director positions will have expanded scope and responsibilities within the AS and will handle the majority of media relations as well as marketing plans and promotional efforts.

"Our new communications and marketing staff will help the AS really connect with the Western community," said Jamin Agosti, AS vice president for student life. "The AS is a massive organization that offers many different services. This staff will help more students take advantage of those services."

The office’s mission statement reads “The Communications [and Marketing] Office is responsible for organizational promotion, marketing and public relations. This office also provides organization-wide support services including a central events calendar, market research and development of strategic promotional goals.”

The office will cost the AS an additional $9,300 per year during the two-year pilot period. The funding for the project comes partially from the existing budget used to pay for the current public relations positions and the difference out of AS reserve funds.

"It is important for students to know where their own money is being spent," Agosti said. "This new staff exists to help communicate that."

Hiring for the director and assistant director of Communications and Marketing begins immediately. The positions close May 19.