Kansas State University selects Patrick Burt as next vice president for communications and marketing
Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024
MANHATTAN — Following a nationwide search, Kansas State University has selected a marketing and communications leader from within the Big 12 family to serve as its next vice president for communications and marketing. Patrick Burt, chief communications and marketing officer at the University of Central Florida, will assume his appointment at K-State April 1, 2024.
“Patrick is a creative, strategic and innovative leader and brand champion,“ said Marshall Stewart, senior vice president for executive affairs, university engagement and partnerships, and chief of staff. “He is joining the university at a critical time, poised to continue to lead the alignment of the university’s brand alongside the Next-Gen K-State strategic plan. We are thrilled to welcome him to the K-State community.”
As vice president for communications and marketing, Burt will drive an integrated marketing and communications strategy that enhances K-State’s visibility and reputation in the market. He will also be responsible for defining the university’s brand and creative strategy, leading public relations efforts and supporting the university’s strategic enrollment management efforts.
“I am excited to join the K-State family at such a transformational time,” Burt said. “President Richard Linton's vision and the Next-Gen K-State plan empower a bold new future for the university to serve the people of Kansas and beyond, contributing to economic prosperity while solving global challenges. It is truly an incredible time to be a Wildcat.”
Burt has served at the University of Central Florida, or UCF, for more than 18 years, driving marketing and communications efforts that have led to an increase in university enrollment, fundraising and overall brand awareness and affinity. Burt began his tenure as a graphic designer and then steadily began rising into roles with expanded duties and responsibilities, leading to his appointment as chief marketing and communications officer in 2022.
At UCF, Burt oversees the university’s brand, creative strategy and institutional content strategy across top-level communications channels; serves on the university’s Emerging Issues and Crisis Response Team; and advises university leadership on communications and marketing strategies, serving as a member of the president’s cabinet. Under his leadership, UCF communications and marketing professionals have amassed numerous awards from various industry organizations, including the Council for Advancement and Support of Education, or CASE.
Prior to his tenure at UCF, Burt held positions in the private sector, including agency roles.
Burt earned his bachelor’s degree in graphic design from North Carolina State University and his master’s in applied sociology from UCF. He is a member of the American Marketing Association and Public Relations Society of America, among other industry affiliations.
