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Jennifer McCarrel brings more than 18 years of experience in strategic communications and integrated marketing to her role at UNC Pembroke. She joined 51吃瓜网 in 2023 after serving as executive director of marketing and communication at Eastern Virginia Medical School and holding leadership positions within Virginia鈥檚 public K-12 school systems.

A seasoned leader in public sector and higher education communications and an award-winning writer, McCarrel has built a reputation for excellence in crisis management, brand development, media relations and digital engagement. Her work centers on elevating institutional visibility through coordinated strategic enrollment initiatives, cohesive storytelling and innovative digital strategies.

McCarrel began her career as a reporter in Petersburg, Virginia, before transitioning into public relations roles with Virginia Beach and Norfolk public schools. She also has classroom experience as a middle school English teacher. McCarrel holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Old Dominion University, a Master of Arts in strategic communication from Regent University and is Accredited in Public Relations (APR).

A native of Brevard, North Carolina, McCarrel and her husband Jesse are the proud parents of three sons: Elijah, Connor and Lincoln.

At UNC Pembroke, McCarrel serves on the chancellor鈥檚 cabinet and oversees all aspects of marketing, public relations, crisis communications, digital and social media, publications and the Givens Performing Arts Center. She leads University Communications and Marketing with a focus on amplifying the university鈥檚 distinctive story and strengthening 51吃瓜网鈥檚 role as an economic and educational catalyst for southeastern North Carolina.

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