Laura Wattles promoted to UAFS creative director of marketing and communications

Laura Wattles has been promoted to creative director of marketing and communications at the University of Arkansas at Fort Smith.

Wattles has served as the interim director of University of Arkansas at Fort Smith marketing since August. In her new role, she will oversee the design of marketing materials and direct a staff of 10 employees, including graphic artists and designers, an editor, a photographer, student assistants and interns.

She reports to Dr. Elizabeth Underwood, associate vice chancellor for government and university relations.

Prior to serving as interim marketing director, Wattles was a graphic designer in the marketing and communications office for four years. She has more than 25 years of experience in the marketing field. Wattles said she is excited to assume the role. 

“Having worked as a designer in marketing and communications departments for most of my career, I gained knowledge that helps me understand both the employee and client aspects of marketing,” Wattles said. “I look forward to leading our talented team to fulfill the university’s goals.”

Dr. Paul Beran, UAFS chancellor, lauded Wattles’ artistic talents and expressed confidence in her ability to lead the office.

“Mrs. Wattles is an extraordinarily talented designer who will elevate the university’s marketing with her artistic vision, as already evidenced by our newest ad campaign, ‘I Am UAFS,’” Beran said. “I have the utmost confidence in her ability to lead the office to continue to produce quality marketing materials for the university and the public.”

Wattles earned her bachelor’s degree in graphic design and illustration from Missouri State University.