CWU Appoints New Director Of Alumni Relations

December 5, 2006

ELLENSBURGWash. - Dr. Paul Baker, Central Washington University vice president for university relations, has announced that Jim Armstrong has accepted the role of director of the CWU Office of Alumni Relations.

"Jim has served for the last six months as the interim director and we're delighted to have him join us as a permanent member of our team," Baker says. "Jim's understanding of the role of alumni relations on a university campus and his demonstrated ability to set goals and achieve them will serve us well."

According to CWU President Jerilyn S. McIntyre, "The depth and breadth of Jim's connections with the community beyond higher education, including with the business community and non-profit organizations, will be a particularly valuable asset to the university."

Julie Cloninger, university senior director of development, echoed that theme, saying, "Jim brings a variety of volunteer and professional experiences to this position. His knowledge of the local business community, combined with his work on statewide committees, has ensured a valuable network of contacts. Jim will work to build a vibrant and dynamic alumni association to benefit current CWU students and our alumni."

Dr. Becky Watson, director of public relations and marketing, notes, "Jim's ability to work as a member of a team is particularly welcome. I look forward to strong collaboration between our two units."

Armstrong was selected from a strong pool of candidates after a nationwide search, chaired by Dr. Wayne Quirk, associate vice president for graduate studies, research, and continuing education. He replaces Dan Jack, who died unexpectedly on April 6.

"Alumni are the university's largest constituency and critical to its future success," Armstrong says. "To be their representative on campus is an honor and a unique opportunity, and I look forward to building on the fine work of Dan Jack."

A partner in Ellensburg's Howe/Armstrong Consulting, Armstrong has also served as executive director of the Ellensburg Chamber of Commerce and as the eastern Washington director of the Cascades Conservation Partnership. He currently sits on several Ellensburg and Kittitas County boards.

Armstrong holds Bachelor of Science degrees in political science and English from Oregon State University and a Juris Doctorate from the University of Oregon School of Law.

Contact: Robert Lowery (509-963-1487/fax 509-963-2301/e-mail: loweryr@cwu.edu)