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Durham, NC - Duke University's Division of Student Affairs is pleased to announce the appointment of Christian Heltne as its new Director of Communications, effective April 1. The Director of Communications for Student Affairs is responsible for leading the conceptual development and branding processes for websites, major projects and publications within the Division, as well as serving on the University Crisis Communications Team.

Heltne most recently held the title of Communications Director for Washington, DC-based Conservation International, a global biodiversity organization focusing on achieving conservation through science, partnerships, and human welfare. In this role, he developed communications materials for a $1.2 billion fundraising campaign critical to the economic future of the organization. Heltne's emphasis on consistent messaging and strategic branding also helped grow Conservation International's audience by more than 30 percent, and led to a substantial increase in the organization's name recognition and market share worldwide.

Beyond his contributions in the non-profit sector, Heltne has also performed freelance publications consulting services and dabbled in the areas of journalism and corporate marketing and design. With this kind of professional background, why is Heltne making the jump into the world of higher education?

"It's been my goal since my college years to build a career that has a positive influence on society," said Heltne, an Iowa State University alumnus who pursued graduate studies at the University of Vermont and the University of Colorado. "There are a lot of ‘good things' a person can do, and helping students get the most out of their important university years is unquestionably a ‘good thing.' The people who work in Student Affairs, and really everyone who works on campus, we're there for the students; to help them get the most out of their experience, explore interests and opportunities, and get ready for what's next in life."

The Division of Student Affairs is certainly ready for Heltne to hit the ground running. Caroline Nisbet, Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs for Resource Administration, noted "Chris has done some amazing work in the not-for-profit world outside higher education. He brings an outstanding skill set and fresh perspective to the communications work in Student Affairs."

Under the leadership of Dr. Larry Moneta, Duke University's Division of Student Affairs is comprised of more than 330 employees spanning 22 departments on West, East and Central campuses. The mission of the Division of Student Affairs is to support the optimal growth and development of students and to provide services and support that enhance their intellectual, social, cultural and physical development.

For more information, contact Chris Heltne at 684-3737.