Dave Murray
Dave Murray is planning to leverage his 30 years of experience in journalism, state government and higher education communications to share the Ferris State University story as the new associate vice president for marketing and communications.
Kathy Mullins, Ferris vice president for Advancement and Marketing, said Murray has a track record of success and will use his experiences and relationships to build upon the university’s already strong marketing and communications efforts.
“Dave is passionate about higher education, and sharing stories that inspire others to start or restart an education that can change their lives,” Mullins said. “Ferris State University has a great story to tell. Dave will help us tell it to an even wider audience, connecting with potential students and stakeholders.”
Murray, who begins at Ferris on Monday, July 17, has been Grand Rapids Community College’s communications director since 2018, overseeing a team that has earned more than 50 regional and national awards.
He previously worked in state government, serving as deputy director for communications for the Michigan Department of Talent and Economic Development. He coordinated communications efforts for four state agencies, working to boost career-focused programs and build a talented workforce.
He served as Gov. Rick Snyder’s deputy press secretary and press secretary from 2013 to 2016, serving as administration spokesman and working with state, national and international media.
Murray was a reporter, editor and community engagement specialist for the MLive Media Group and The Grand Rapids Press from 1999 through 2013, covering education and the state Legislature, after covering education for The Flint Journal for 10 years.
Murray at Ferris will oversee teams that cover marketing, public relations, crisis communications, web content, graphic design, photography, video and more.
Murray had opportunities to work closely with Ferris throughout his career, and was impressed by the university’s heritage, its work today and its potential to reach more people.
“Ferris State University has a proud history and a bright future,” Murray said. “Ferris creates tremendous opportunities for students in Michigan and beyond. I’m proud to be part of the team entrusted to tell the stories of Ferris students, people and programs. Our mission is to reach out to potential students of all ages, share the Ferris story and help them connect with the education they need to enhance and even transform their lives.”
At GRCC, Murray oversaw external and internal communications, media relations, social media, marketing and content creation for digital and print communications. The portfolio mirrors the team he will join at Ferris, which includes 10 full-time employees and close partnerships with marketing and communications specialists across the university system.
Murray earned a Bachelor of Journalism from the University of Missouri School of Journalism in 1986 after he received an Associate of Arts from Nassau Community College in 1984.