“We selected Sandy after an extensive national search, through which she emerged as the top choice for this important position,” Martin said. “My conversations with Sandy revealed her deep knowledge, experience and expertise, as well as her eagerness to support and advance the work of the College—and the liberal arts mission more generally.”
In her new role, Genelius will be responsible for developing and implementing a strategic and comprehensive communications program for the College. She will oversee all aspects of public affairs, marketing and communications across all print and digital formats, as well as the programs for major events. Genelius replaces Pete Mackey, who stepped down as CCO in August 2016.
Genelius’s extensive career in communications leadership spans more than three decades. She served as vice president of corporate communications and public affairs at Sony Corp. of America and was vice president for CBS News Communications. During her 20 years at CBS, she also held positions within CBS Sports, including director of publicity for the 1992 and 1994 Olympics. Most recently, Genelius has been a strategic communications consultant, working with clients in the corporate and nonprofit sectors.
“I couldn’t be more excited to join Amherst’s remarkable community and about the work ahead,” Genelius said. “I look forward to learning as much as I can about the College and to collaborating closely with faculty, students, staff and alumni to share Amherst’s unique story with audiences around the corner, around the globe and everywhere in between.”
The search committee was chaired by Kevin Weinman, Amherst’s chief financial and administrative officer, and included Patricia Allen, director of conferences and special events; Lawrence Douglas, James J. Grosfeld Professor of Law, Jurisprudence and Social Thought; Jessica Gifford, mental health educator; Caroline Hanna, director of media communications; Norm Jones, chief diversity and inclusion officer; Megan Morey, chief advancement officer; Janet Tobin, associate dean for academic administration; and Lauren Tuiskula ’17, a recent editor-in-chief of the Amherst Student.
About Amherst College
Founded in 1821, Amherst is a highly selective, coeducational liberal arts college with 1,800 students from most of the 50 states and more than 30 other countries. Considered one of the nation’s best educational institutions, Amherst awards the B.A. degree in 37 fields of study. Sixty percent of Amherst students receive need-based financial aid.