University of Wisconsin-Madison

Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin has selected Diana Harvey as the inaugural vice chancellor for strategic communication at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, effective September 1, 2023.

The vice chancellor will lead a new division, Strategic Communication, made up of the offices of University Communications and University Marketing, previously within the Office of University Relations. The area manages a broad range of UW–Madison’s communications, marketing, and brand strategy, while also working closely with the university’s schools and colleges and affiliated organizations. 

As a Badger parent, “I have been inspired by the Wisconsin Idea,” Harvey says. “I’m both humbled and delighted to share stories of the many ways the university contributes to the quality of life in Wisconsin, drives the state economy and serves as an engine of social mobility for graduates.” 

Harvey says she plans to continue to emphasize the impact and excellence of the university’s teaching, research and outreach. “I strive to demonstrate how university faculty, students and staff are generating new knowledge, translating complex discoveries and serving the community in ways that create a better world,” she says.

Harvey has served as associate vice chancellor for Communications & Public Affairs at the University of California, Berkeley, since August 2017. In that role, she has overseen communications, marketing and government and community relations. Previously, Harvey served as director of communications, marketing and alumni engagement at Duke University’s Global Health Institute and as chief communications officer and deputy chief of staff to the president at the University of Minnesota.

Harvey holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in the liberal arts, both from the University of Minnesota.

Elizabeth Neustaedter led this search with Sandeep Kaur.