2024 PRSA Southern Arizona Board IMPACT Co-Chair

Melissa Martinez, APR, MA, CPCAPR, MA, CPC

Manager, Communications

University of Arizona 

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Melissa Martinez, a seasoned communications professional, brings over two decades of expertise to her current role as Communication Manager at the University of Arizona's Office of the Provost. She has a master’s in strategic communication and innovation from Texas Tech University, a bachelor’s in journalism from the University of Arizona, and an Accreditation in Public Relations from the Public Relations Society of America. Martinez has consistently excelled in shaping and executing impactful communication strategies.

 

As the former Chief Communication Officer for the El Paso Independent School District, Martinez led a dynamic team of 13 in managing the marketing and communication efforts for a 60,000-student and 8,000-employee public school district. Her strategic marketing, recruitment, and messaging programs were pivotal in successfully passing a $668 million bond, marking a historic achievement for El Paso County. Prior to her role at the El Paso ISD, Martinez worked in media with roles spanning from reporter to her final post as senior editor where she oversaw the transition to digital communications.

 

With public communication and speechwriting certifications, Martinez combines strategic planning, crisis communication, and brand management skills to deliver impactful results. She has served on the boards of the Texas School Public Relations Association and the Girl Scouts of the Desert Southwest.

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