On November 15, 2024, the University of Minnesota’s Board of Regents approved the appointment of Chris Gade as the new Vice President for Communications, effective November 25, 2024. This decision was announced during a special meeting and marks a significant step for the University as it aims to strengthen its public image and communication strategies. Gade’s role will involve overseeing the University’s branding, marketing, and communications efforts while playing a vital part in shaping the institution’s reputation locally and nationally.
Gade brings over three decades of experience in communications and public affairs, most notably from his career at the Mayo Clinic and Rush University Medical Center. He began his tenure at Mayo Clinic in 1989 as a communications specialist, where he quickly demonstrated his ability to handle communication complexities Mayo was facing. During his time at Mayo, Gade managed a team of more than 160 professionals responsible for the Clinic’s global communication strategies, which included employee and client relations, government engagement, and reputation management. His leadership helped solidify Mayo Clinic’s position as a worldwide leader in healthcare and innovation.
Gade’s academic credentials complement his professional achievements. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Luther College and a Master of Public Affairs from the University of Minnesota’s Humphrey School of Public Affairs. His appointment to the University of Minnesota represents his strong ties to the state and his care for the university. It is because of his background that helps position him to understand the University’s mission.
As Vice President for Communications, Gade will lead the University Relations marketing and communications teams. His primary focus will be on celebrating the University of Minnesota System’s contributions to the state and beyond. By collaborating with university leadership, Gade aims to strengthen the institution’s branding and communication strategies, ensuring the University’s impact as a leader in research, education, and public service is widely recognized.
We are able to see how eager Gade is to begin his work when he expressed that “I’ve been fortunate to serve in organizations committed to leveraging education and research to serve the public good, and nowhere is this more true than the University of Minnesota. It’s my honor to lead teams focused on sharing how the U of M is working with communities in Minnesota, across the nation, and beyond to honor our land-grant mission and strengthen our economy, innovation, culture, and quality of life.”
Gade’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for the University of Minnesota. As the institution strives to enhance its public image and gain stronger connections with the community, Gade’s experience in communications and public affairs will be very helpful. His leadership aligns with the University’s goals of advancing its reputation for research, innovation, and education.
The University of Minnesota has long been a helpful tool when it comes to helping the state’s development through its contributions to education, research, and public service. Gade’s leadership is expected to amplify these efforts by effectively communicating the University’s achievements and creating greater engagement with its stakeholders. By enhancing the University’s branding and outreach efforts, Gade’s upcoming work will help ensure that the institution thrives in an increasingly competitive higher education landscape.
Chris Gade’s appointment as Vice President for Communications represents a promising new chapter for the University of Minnesota. With his wealth of experience, deep ties to Minnesota, and track record of success, Gade is well-positioned to lead the University’s communications efforts. His leadership will reinforce the University’s commitment to its mission of serving the public good through education, research, community engagement and will hopefully our university become a bigger Big Ten school.
