Western University of Health Sciences (WesternU) has expanded its Media

Relations Department to include a new associate position. The new spot is

in response to the growth generated by the addition of two new colleges at

WesternU: the College of Veterinary Medicine and the College of Graduate

Nursing.

Julie Eklund has filled the new Media Relations Associate job. She comes

to the University from the San Gabriel Valley Tribune newspaper, where she

worked as a copy editor, page designer and reporter. Eklund has a

bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of La Verne, and while

completing her studies participated in internships at People magazine and

Putnam-Berkley book publishers.

“”I wanted to use my media experiences in a way that could really benefit a

worthwhile group, and as I learned more about WesternU it seemed clear

that promoting the school would be a very rewarding job,”” Eklund said.

Some of her duties at WesternU will include writing and distributing news

releases, facilitating interviews between journalists and faculty members,

updating copy for Web sites, and attending community and institutional

events.

According to Hoyt Smith, director of the four-member media relations

department, the new position will allow for more comprehensive media

communications coverage at WesternU.

“”As our mission expands and the number of University patrons and alumni

grow, the role of communications is becoming more important than ever.

Julie brings a journalistic expertise and an in-depth knowledge of

surrounding communities that will benefit all programs at WesternU,”” Smith

said.

Eklund is a native of Southern California, and resides in Covina.