Rowan appoints first chief marketing officer

As part of its rapid transformation into one of the fastest-growing public research institutions in the country, Rowan University has appointed a chief marketing officer to lead its new Division of Marketing & Communication. 

John Veilleux is a veteran award-winning strategic marketing and communication executive who has devised and implemented communication brand-building campaigns for higher education institutions.

He comes to Rowan after serving five years as chief marketing officer and vice president of university communications for Central Michigan University. Previously, he spent 20 years working in leadership roles at Texas Wesleyan University and Indiana University of Pennsylvania.  

His expertise includes data-driven marketing, digital engagement, brand development, social media strategy, enrollment management and crisis communication.

The new division represents a significant investment and renewed focus on sharing Rowan University’s story. Following a major reorganization, Veilleux will lead marketing and communication professionals across the University.

The move centralizes critical communication functions as the University promotes programs to national audiences and recruits new employees, said President Ali A. Houshmand.  

“We are beginning the next essential phase in Rowan’s strategic growth, helping ensure the health of the University and expanding our potential to serve more with excellence, access and quality in everything we do,” Houshmand said. 

Veilleux earned a Bachelor of Science in journalism, majoring in advertising, from the University of North Texas and an MBA, with an emphasis in organizational management, from Texas Wesleyan University. 

“I am grateful to Dr. Houshmand and the members of the search committee for the opportunity to join Rowan University,” Veilleux said. “Our newly centralized team of talented marketing and communications professionals is highly focused on telling the story of Rowan University in a way that will further distinguish Rowan from its competitors and help Rowan achieve its strategic priorities.”