What We’re Fixing
Operational Excellence is creating a more coordinated approach to marketing and communications at Portland State, with clearer university-wide strategy, stronger brand alignment, and improved support for communications work across campus.
Where We Stand
During 2025–26, PSU began moving toward a more centrally led and coordinated Marketing & Communications model. The university established interim Chief Marketing and Communications Officer leadership and developed redesigned processes to address challenges identified through the Operational Excellence review.
The work is focused on improving coordination across distributed communications teams, strengthening brand consistency, and ensuring that marketing and communications resources are aligned with university priorities.
Priorities for 2026–27
During 2026–27, Marketing & Communications will focus on:
- Implementing a centrally led Marketing & Communications strategy
- Clarifying roles and responsibilities between central and distributed teams
- Strengthening university-wide coordination and planning
- Improving student and employee communications
- Increasing consistency in brand and web practices
- Providing communications standards and support for campus communicators
- Aligning marketing resources with enrollment and other university priorities
What This Means
The goal is not to centralize every marketing or communications activity. It is to create a more coordinated university-wide system in which responsibilities are clear, common standards are easier to follow, and communications resources are directed toward PSU’s highest priorities.