Bonkowski named Director of Communications and Marketing at UW-Green Bay

GREEN BAY – The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay’s Chief of Staff Ron Pfeifer announced the appointment of Janet Bonkowski as UWGB’s Director of Communications and Marketing, beginning March 1.

Janet Bonkowski

Bonkowski will provide strategic vision and leadership for the University’s integrated communications, public relations and marketing efforts as they support student recruitment, retention and fundraising at UW-Green Bay. Her position will oversee communication planning, media and public relations, publications, event marketing, branding, social media, web communications, multi-media productions, marketing plans, graphic styles and advertising. She will supervise a staff of six in the University’s Office of Marketing and University Communication. She will also serve as the public relations spokesperson for UW-Green Bay, and advise Chancellor Gary L. Miller and his leadership team on public communication strategies and messaging. She will also manage campus crisis communication.

“We are delighted to welcome Janet Bonkowski to our University,” said Pfeifer.  “We’re happy to have attracted such a high caliber, experienced individual.  We believe Janet is a great fit and I am confident that she will provide us with renewed energy and vision.  We are eager for her to arrive on campus and get started.”

Bonkowski comes to UW-Green Bay from Schneider National Inc. where she served as Public Relations Manager, overseeing all public relations for one of the nation’s largest transportation and logistics companies. She has been with Schneider since January of 2005 and has more than 20 years experience in strategic planning, marketing and public relations with businesses and non-profit organizations.

The Denmark, Wis. native has been a member of Denmark State Bank’s Board of Directors since 2009. From 1997 through 2004, she worked for The Goltz Seering Agency, Green Bay, as the director of public relations.

“I am beyond excited and grateful for this opportunity to help the University grow while promoting the Wisconsin Idea and all the ways the UW System overall — and the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay in particular — improves the quality of life for so many in our community…and our world,” said Bonkowski.

The 1990 graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison (journalism and political science) has an extensive record of professional and community involvement.

She is accredited in public relations (APR) by the Public Relations Society of America. She attended the Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce’s Political Training Institute. She is a member and “Competent Toastmaster” designee of Toastmasters International — a national organization that empowers individuals in becoming more effective communicators and leaders.

Bonkowski currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Center for Childhood Safety and has served the needs of the community in roles with St. Matthew Grade School, Greater Green Bay Community Foundation, National Railroad Museum, Great Explorations Children’s Museum, and other community businesses and organizations. She is currently the president of the Brown County Chapter of the UW-Madison Alumni Association.

Bonkowski will fill the role left vacant by the departure of Christopher Sampson, who retired in January 2016 after a 30-year public relations career with the University. Members of the media can reach Bonkowski by calling 920-465-2527, or reach her by e-mail, bonkowsj@uwgb.edu.

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