Susan Turner, Senior Director of Advancement and Alumni Relations
Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College (SMWC) welcomes Susan Turner as the new senior director of advancement and alumni relations.
“Susan is a dynamic leader who has the knowledge and experience to build upon our culture and strengthen the institution,” said Karen Dyer, vice president for advancement. “Her background in fundraising, event planning, strategic planning and project management will be of great value to our alums and the community.”
Turner will lead strategies, programs and staff focused on fundraising activities and build connections with more than seven thousand alums worldwide. She will also serve as the coordinator for the Wabash Valley Leadership Institute, a new initiative in collaboration with the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce, to launch in the fall of 2014. Participants will follow a leadership curriculum, exploring leadership styles, theories and community engagement.
“I’m delighted to join the leadership team at this pivotal time in the college’s history. I’m looking forward to reconnecting alums with SMWC and furthering the legacy of leadership in West Central Indiana by the implementation of the Wabash Valley Leadership Institute,” said Turner.
Previously, Turner served as the marketing director at Vermillion Rise Mega Park, in Newport, Ind. She created and implemented strategic marketing initiatives and leasing functions for the industrial park. Turner maintained brand identity for the park and worked closely with the Accelerate West Central Indiana and the Indiana Economic Development Corporation.
She also worked as the marketing and public relations manager for Union Associated Physicians Clinic, an affiliate of Union Health System in Terre Haute, Ind. She was responsible for implementing and monitoring marketing campaigns and community outreach.
An active member of the community, Turner has served on a variety of boards including Accelerate West Central Indiana, Essence of Red, Junior Achievement of the Wabash Valley, Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce, Terre Haute Young Leaders and the United Way of the Wabash Valley Cabinet.
Turner earned her bachelor’s degree in communication and public relations at Indiana State University. In 2014, she earned her master of leadership development degree from SMWC.