Communications Team
Mission & Guiding Principles
The office of communications is a digital communications marketing hub for multimedia storytelling that helps to inspire a college-going culture in Newark, NJ.
Keys to Success:
- produce authentic and inspiring stories
- foster a culture of collaboration
- sustain connectivity to Newark's major stakeholders
- sustain relationships with grassroots partners
- leverage local talent networks
- establish strategic partnerships
- lead in digital communications marketing
About
The Rutgers University- Newark (R U-N) Office of Communications reports to the RU-N Chancellor’s office. We oversee external and internal communications, public/ media relations, brand identity, communications/marketing strategy, the core R U-N website, and community engagement projects for the university.
Resources
Voice and Tone Guide: Learn all about the Rutgers University-Newark voice, tone and style through our Voice and Tone Guide here.
Rutgers University Visual Identity: https://communications.rutgers.edu/services-resources/logos-signatures-and-visual-identity
Rutgers University Signature Generator: https://signaturegenerator.rutgers.edu/
Working With the Media: Gain tips from the Rutgers University – Newark Office of Communications on when you are contacted by the media) https://www.newark.rutgers.edu/working-media
Meet Our Team
Who We Are
Rutgers University–Newark Office of Communications
Blumenthal Hall, Room 210
249 University Avenue
Newark, NJ 07102
973-353-5262 | fax: 973-353-1050
Kimberlee S. Williams
Kimberlee has dedicated 30+ years to Newark's growth through her brands FEMWORKS, TedX Newark, and Newark Business Hub, driving equity and change. In her current role as Director of Communications and Marketing for RU-N, the city of Newark's most prominent university, she shapes messaging and branding. Kimberlee and her wife are avid gardeners and enjoy spa days and NYC jazz outings.
Jeffrey Billingsley
Jeff, a Newark, NJ native, is the ultimate "dot connector" through the local and a global network of relationships he's developed over decades as a social entrepreneur and RU-N employee. His expertise spans music, film, TV, comedy, and education. A passion for serving the under-served motivates his grind. in Jeff is a lifelong learner that began his Rutgers career in 1994. He lives by #LETSGROW and #LETSOWN!
Zeinab Said
Zeinab, a graduate from Rutgers-Newark, enjoys reading, mostly nonfiction, and journaling. She’s always had a love for storytelling and exploring the core of people and their cultures. Aside from watching the same romcoms repeatedly, she also enjoys exploring within the world of makeup and skincare. Need help building your skincare routine? She’s your girl!
Ronald Scott
As Video Journalist, Multimedia Artist in the Communications Department at Rutgers University – Newark, Ron Scott supports the university’s communications efforts.
Carrie Stetler
Carrie Stetler has worked in Newark, and written about it, for nearly 30 years. She loves Rutgers-Newark because of its dedication to the city and to equality, justice and opportunity. Carrie has two children and lives in Parsippany with her three cats. She has eclectic tastes in music, with a soft spot for boy bands, even corny ones.
Lindsey C. Holmes
Originally from Washington, DC, Lindsey brings her fun, 'down-home' personality to the team. She is a graduate of Sarah Lawrence College (BFA) and UMD College Park (MS) and has over 20 years of digital/ tech experience. Having won numerous awards for her contributions to the space, she is most proud of her cause campaign work in HIV awareness and learning disparities. Lindsey is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., loves to travel, is an avid swimmer, and fur-mom to the happiest poodle on Earth, Barron Alexander.
In Loving Memory of Amanda Holmes
It is with deep sorrow and heavy hearts that we share the passing of our dear colleague and friend, Amanda Holmes. Amanda was an integral part of the Office of Communications at Rutgers University–Newark, bringing not only her immense talent and creativity to our team, but also warmth, empathy, and a spirit that truly uplifted everyone around her.
During her time with us, Amanda exemplified what it means to be a communicator—thoughtful, purposeful, and passionate. Her work consistently reflected her dedication to storytelling that was inclusive, impactful, and deeply human. Whether she was liasing with students and colleagues, managing major internal projects, or mentoring others, Amanda always led with care and authenticity.
Beyond her professional contributions, Amanda was a cherished colleague and friend. Her laughter could light up a room, and her kindness left a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of working with her. She made our office feel like a family.
Amanda’s absence leaves a space we cannot fill, but her legacy lives on in the stories she helped shape, the community she nurtured, and the lives she touched.
Our thoughts and love are with Amanda’s family, friends, and everyone who knew and loved her. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered.
With heartfelt remembrance,
The Office of Communications Rutgers University–Newark
Rutgers Faculty and Staff in Need of Communications assistance? Let us help you!
Submit requests for website updates to the RU-N website (http://Newark.rutgers.edu) here.
Submit requests for media coverage here.
Submit your events via Localist here.
Learn with R U-N OCC
The R U-N Office of Communications is committed to providing education to our staff, faculty, communicators, and greater community. Find a list of past, current and upcoming webinars and other resources developed and hosted by the Rutgers University Newark Office of Communications team.
Upcoming Webinars
- Building a Social Media Strategy (Date TBD) - Through this webinar attendees will learn how to plan your posts to achieve your social media goals. When hiring a professional photographer is outside your budget or timeline, you will acquire tips to take photos for social media pages with your phone! #TrustTheProcess
Past Webinars
- RU-N News Site Publishing Guidelines - Facilitated by Carrie Stetler, Assistant Director of Media Relations for the RU-N Office of Communications, attendees learned how news from your school or unit could reach a wider audience. As the new RU-N website is better equipped to present more news from schools and units across campus. This workshop reviewed the Office of Communications' publishing guidelines to write and post content for the main RU-N news site and send press releases to national, regional, and local media.
- Capturing Photography & Videography on Campus - Facilitated by Jeff Billingsley, Assistant Director, RU-N Office of Communications attendees learned how RU-N schools and units can collectively create photos and video content representing our university's current-day people and vibe. ‘There is a campaign to unify our efforts across schools and departments to capture and share hi-res stock quality photography and videos to highlight the happy and fulfilled work and study occurring on and off-campus. By working together, we can create a visual catalog that inspires others to join us at RU-N.’
Work With Us!
Please submit requests for Video/ Photography, Community Stories, Interviews through our new submission form!
Please note, our turnaround times have changed. All submissions will be reviewed within 5-7 business days. Exceptions will be made (at our discretion) for urgent submissions.
We’re Hiring: Student Producers!
The Rutgers-Newark Office of Communications is looking for student producers. Do you have experience with photography, videography, editing, graphic design, writing, or social media? Do what you love and get paid. Click here to email your resume.
Rutgers University –Newark School Communicators
Daniel Stoll
Ginger Swiston
Nora Luongo
