Gallaudet University Names Catherine Murphy Executive Director of Public and Media Relations

WASHINGTON, DC — November 23, 2010, – Gallaudet University today announced the selection of Catherine Murphy as the 146-year-old institution’s new executive director of public and media relations.

Murphy brings extensive experience to the position, most recently as director of communications and public affairs for the Alexander Graham Bell Association for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. In that capacity, she represented the association on a variety of deaf and hard of hearing advocacy coalitions, including as co-chair of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing Alliance, as well as before media representatives, and members of Congress and their staffs.

In her new role, Murphy will oversee the university’s communications functions, including its media relations efforts, print and electronic publications, and related website content and marketing activities.

“Gallaudet has always held a special place in my family,” said Murphy, whose brother is deaf and a former student of the university. “It’s an honor to be selected for this important and visible position and I look forward to being a part of the university’s continued growth and success.”

Gallaudet University, federally chartered in 1864, is a bilingual, diverse, multicultural institution of higher education that ensures the intellectual and professional advancement of deaf and hard of hearing individuals through American Sign Language and English. Gallaudet maintains a proud tradition of research and scholarly activity and prepares its graduates for career opportunities in a highly competitive, technological, and rapidly changing world.