Saint Mary’s Hires Mayor’s Communications Director
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowThe director of communications for South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg is leaving for a job with her alma mater. Kara Kelly, who has served in the role with the city for the last three years, will take over as special assistant to Saint Mary’s College President Jan Cervelli July 18.
Kelly graduated from the Notre Dame campus in 1996. Prior to her job in the mayor’s office, she spent 12 years as director of communications for the University of Notre Dame School of Architecture.
Cervelli, who succeeded Carol Ann Mooney last month, says "we’re thrilled to welcome Kara back to Saint Mary’s. She brings a wealth of knowledge about strategic communications, community relations, and problem solving. Kara’s experience and enthusiasm for the College will help us build on our strengths to create an even more vibrant future."
Kelly succeeds Susan Combs Dampeer, who retired earlier this year. She says "this is an exciting time for Saint Mary’s. President Cervelli, the faculty, staff, and students have generated great enthusiasm and optimism for the future. I’m honored to join them and return to a place that has meant so much to me."
Kelly’s previous experience also includes publicity campaigns for Sorin Books, a general-trade imprint of Ave Maria Press and time as an assistant editor for U.S. Catholic Magazine in Chicago.
In a statement, Buttigieg said "Kara Kelly has served the people of South Bend and my office with great integrity, patience, skill, and tact. We will miss her on the 14th floor, but she is an ideal choice for this important role at Saint Mary’s and we wish her all the best."