Razorback Foundation announces new director of strategic communications and stewardship

The Razorback Foundation Inc. has hired Meredith Pettigrew as director of strategic communications and stewardship. She replaces Kassidie Blackstock, who took a job in March at Purdue University as associate athletics director for strategic communications.

The Razorback Foundation is the private fundraising arm that raises millions of dollars in support of the University of Arkansas athletics department.

“We are proud to welcome Meredith to the Razorback Foundation team,” Racorback Foundation executive director Scott Varady said in a statement. “With more than a decade’s worth of communications experience and lifelong ties to Arkansas, Meredith brings tremendous experience and is a natural fit for this position. We know she will make a positive impact that will benefit our members and Razorback fans.”

Pettigrew worked since 2008 at Fayetteville public relations firm Mitchell, most recently as media services supervisor. There she provided strategic communications and public relations support for companies like Procter & Gamble, Walmart and Arkansas Children’s Northwest. She managed national product launches, national media integrations, large-scale events and celebrity and professional athlete engagements. Prior to Mitchell, she was a development coordinator at Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale.

“I am a proud native Arkansan and third-generation University of Arkansas graduate,” Pettigrew said. “I come from a sports family and my love of the Razorbacks runs deep. I am honored to serve my favorite teams in a whole new way while fulfilling the mission of the foundation.”

Pettigrew graduated from the University of Arkansas in 2007. She earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism with an emphasis in advertising and public relations. She was active in several organizations on campus including interning with the athletics department, supporting game day media activities for men’s sports. She was also a member of Delta Delta Delta sorority, serving as president her senior year.

Pettigrew and her husband, Ryan, have two sons, Harlan and Gerritt, and live in Prairie Grove.