Cassandra Stalzer to lead strategic communications for the UA Foundation and work with Public Affairs on system communication efforts and outreach

Cassandra Stalzer, APR, CAP® will join the University of Alaska Foundation as manager of public relations on December 6 where she will lead strategic communications and community outreach. Cassandra also will work with the system Office of Public Affairs promoting UA and contributing to the system’s overall communications efforts. She will be located in the foundation’s Anchorage office, but will work closely with UAA, UAF, UAS and partners throughout Alaska and beyond.

Cassandra’s extensive private sector experience, strategic insights and well defined skill set match the communication and PR tasks she will be managing for the Foundation and OPA. She currently leads development and philanthropic efforts for United Way of Alaska. Her professional background also includes eight years as the lead communicator for the Rasmuson Foundation – a major contributor to UA and strategic partner of the Foundation – four years with the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture as a public relations specialist, and public radio development and production experience. 

As a leader with experience in philanthropy, campaign design and management, content creation, PR and cross-cultural communications, Cassandra brings a passion for higher education to her new roles. Her knowledge of Alaska and its leaders, her ability to network, and her knowledge of campaign strategies will benefit the reputational awareness of the entire UA system.

She holds a B.S. in Journalism from West Virginia University and numerous awards, recognitions and certifications from national and instate organizations including the Public Relations Society of America and Council on Foundations.