The A.Q. Miller School of Media and Communication at Kansas State University has announced the creation of a new leadership role, assistant director of strategic initiatives. This position aims to advance the school’s mission, foster innovation and create new opportunities for students, faculty, the campus community and external stakeholders. It also includes program administration for the recently launched undergraduate degree in digital innovation in media. Jana Thomas, professor of practice, was promoted to this new role at the beginning of the spring 2025 semester.

As assistant director of strategic initiatives, Thomas will lead the development, coordination, execution and evaluation of new interdisciplinary avenues for student success and program expansion. She will, for example, play a key role in developing new, on-demand digital media and communication skills badges, microcredentials, and certifications that equip learners of all ages and across career fields with industry-relevant skills, foster lifelong learning, and strengthen university-employer connections.

“This role is reflective of the A.Q. Miller School’s drive to innovate, engage our community and collaborate with partners,” said Heather Woods, director of the school. “Jana’s experience in industry, the classroom and research makes her ideal for this role.”

Thomas will also provide forward-looking strategic leadership that builds upon the strong foundation of A.Q. Miller School curriculum and applied student learning experiences, as the school continues to innovate and adapt to meet the needs of future learners, employers, and society.

"It’s a privilege to step into this new role and help drive new initiatives that strengthen the A.Q. Miller School’s impact," said Thomas. "I’ve dedicated the last five years at K-State to building innovative digital and social media curriculum and launching industry-focused degree programs and certifications that have directly contributed to A.Q. Miller School growth and success. I now look forward to continuing this work in a larger capacity while drawing on 20 years of strategic planning, strategic communications, and entrepreneurship.”

 

About the A.Q. Miller School of Media and Communication

The A.Q. Miller School of Media and Communication is an online and on-campus destination at Kansas State University for study, research, and preparation for the careers and community challenges of the future. Multiple undergraduate and graduate programs help students combine their passions and interests with theoretical and applied communication strategies, tools, and techniques to tell accurate and timely stories; design content to educate and inform, create and deliver messages that inspire and support; champion movements for change; and bring people together across cultural contexts. With expert guidance from faculty, alumni, and industry partners, graduates leave prepared for what's next in their career, education, community and life.

For more information, visit www.K-State.edu/mediacomm.