Hardcastle named executive director for public relations

Office of Communications & Marketing |Northeastern State University
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. -- Ben Hardcastle, formerly director of communications for the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, is now the executive director for public relations & marketing at Northeastern State University.

A Magna cum Laude graduate of Drury College in Springfield, Mo., and holding a double bachelor of arts in political science and communication, Hardcastle assumed his post with NSU on March 25.

"I was pleased to accept the university cabinet's recommendationto appoint Mr. Ben Hardcastle," said NSU President Steve Turner. "He is an accomplished professional with proven expertise in higher education communications, media, government,community relations, budget management, fundraising, marketing, video and radio production, public speaking, writing, publications and social media."

In his capacity with the OSRHE, he led the state-wide advertising campaign for the Oklahoma's Promise Scholarship Program,Reach Higher-Oklahoma's Adult Degree Completion Program, and most recently implemented collateral elements and system-wide communication tactics for Gov. Mary Fallin's Complete College America initiative.

Prior to joining the OSRHE, Ben servedas the director of communications for the Central Florida Regional Transportation Authority, as manager of communications for the Orange County Government, and vice president of marketing and resource development for the Heart of Florida United Way in Orlando, Fla. His early career included six years at WMFE-TV in Orlando and 11 years with OETA.

"I am thrilled at the prospect of joining a talented staff at one of the leading public universities in Oklahoma," Hardcastle said."This is a unique opportunity tobe a part of an already successful organization in a dynamic part of our state.My wife Terry and I are really looking forward to the move to Green Country!"

Hardcastle takes over for Jerry Cook, who had served as executive director in an interim capacity since December 2011.