LHU VP Jenkins Leaving for Yavapai College in Arizona

LOCK HAVEN — Rodney Jenkins, for the last five years Vice President of University Relations at Lock Haven University, has accepted a new position at Yavapai College in Arizona.

Jenkins told therecord-online his last day at LHU will be June 30. He said his decision to take the new position was a “quality of life and standard of living” one for himself and his family. He called Yavapai College a “phenomenal institution which “pushes a customer service-based agenda with students and community.” The school is located in Prescott, AZ.

At Yavapai Jenkins assumes the role Vice President of Community Relations. Jenkins will be responsible for managing Yavapai College’s marketing, communications, public relations, advancement, economic and workforce development and legislative relations. His expected start date is Monday, July 3.

Jenkins said Lock Haven University has made significant strides over the last five years under the direction of President Michael Fiorentino in “developing the university and helping develop the community.” Noting the current financial/enrollment plight of the State System of Higher Education schools, Jenkins lauded Fiorentino’s “leadership and vision” through what he called “these difficult days” and said he hopes “the campus community embraces and fully supports him” in his efforts.

Yavapai College President Dr. Penny Wills said of Jenkins: “His proficiency in communications, marketing, and nurturing relationships with foundations and business and community leaders makes him a most valuable addition to our executive leadership team.”

Jenkins has over 15 years of experience leading marketing and communications departments, political and issues-based campaigns, and strengthening community relations.

Jenkins came to Lock Haven having served as the Director of Communications and Marketing for the Dekalb County school system in Georgia, Director of Communications and Marketing at the Georgia Department of Administrative Services, Director of Corporate Marketing for Cleveland Public Power, and Chief Public Affairs Officer for the City of Cleveland.

Yavapai College, which opened in 1969, provides higher learning, cultural resources and economic development support for the diverse populations of Yavapai County. The college offers a wide range of academic programs to students at facilities in Prescott, Clarkdale (the Verde Valley Campus), Prescott Valley, Chino Valley, Sedona and the Career and Technical Education Center (CTEC) near the Prescott Airport.