Brett Rowlett

About Brett Rowlett

Visionary and collaborative executive with extensive experience in strategic planning, project development, and institutional advancement within the higher education sector. Proven ability to lead and unify diverse groups towards common goals, underpinned by strong relationships throughout Oregon and beyond. Adept in policy advocacy, fostering community college priorities, and navigating the higher education landscape. Skilled communicator with a talent for media, marketing, and orchestrating large-scale events. Demonstrates a strong leadership presence, guiding executive teams while promoting a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion. Committed to advancing student success and championing the pivotal role of community colleges in state and national educational frameworks.

Experience

1. Executive Director of External Affairs

   Lane Community College

   Feb 2020 — Present · Eugene, OR, US

   In consultation and collaboration with the President and Executive Team, plan and execute a comprehensive, proactive strategy that advances the college mission and goals with external entities and develop beneficial links between the college and community. Oversee institution’s external affairs team, including marketing; website; community, governmental, media and public relations; and printing and graphics. Collaborate with the President and Executive Team to devise and implement a legislative strategy aimed at advancing policy objectives. Manage annual budgets exceeding $2 million while leading high-performing teams of 7-10 employees and 5-10 student workers, ensuring efficient and effective operational outcomesAccomplishments:• Secured budget appropriations and achieved legislative goals, including requests for $8 million in state capital funding and $2.25 million in federal earmarks• Directed and managed the development, dissemination and evaluation of college-wide marketing and communication activities resulting in institution’s first multi-year enrollment growth in more than a decade• Served as lead staff contact for presidential transition, coordinating External Transition Team comprised of community, business and education leaders • Completed a website redesign project involving more than pages, on-schedule and on-budget• Published weekly electronic newsletter for campus stakeholders to raise awareness of local, state, and federal news related to community college priorities; awarded second place for Best E-Newsletter by National Council for Marketing and Public Relations, District 7• Directed and supported programs in the creation of strategic marketing initiatives; identifying target audiences; developing messages; determining timelines, creative direction, and budget allocation which were re cognized with successive state and national awards

Education

• University of Minnesota

  Communications & State Government

  1996 — 2000

• University of Oregon

  BS, Political Science

  2006 — 2007

Skills

• Government
• Nonprofits
• Policy Analysis
• Volunteer Management
• Public Relations
• Media Relations
• Public Policy
• Community Colleges
• Economic Development
• Community Relations
• Coalitions
• Community Outreach
• Community Development
• Legislative Relations
• Event Planning
• Grassroots
• College
• Fundraising
• Community Engagement
• Grassroots Organizing
• Public Affairs
• Grants
• Lobbying
• Building Coalitions
• Public Speaking
• Nonprofit Organizations
• Community Organizing
• Grant Writing
• Program Development