Diana Bates Mock has been promoted to associate vice president of communications and marketing, and the University Communications Office, which she heads, has become a separate department, reporting directly to the president. The area had been part of the Advancement Office.
"I have a great respect for communications and media and I think it's time to elevate that area of the university," said FPU President Pete C. Menjares, who came to Fresno from Los Angeles, one of the world's largest media markets. "That change reflects the changing climate in higher education."
While FPU remains the only independent, accredited Christian university based in the Central Valley, students—both traditional undergraduates and working adults—have more educational options than just a few years ago. "How a university brands itself, how it markets itself, is important as students make decisions on where they will go," Menjares said.
Mock has led the communication and marketing team at FPU since 2001. During that time her responsibilities have grown to include the university Web and social media presence as well as multimedia, publications, print and broadcast advertising and campus events. The staff has increased from three to 10.
"It's extremely gratifying to be part of an organization that puts a premium on the value of communications and marketing," Mock said. "I'm grateful to work with such a forward-thinking administration, collaborative group of colleagues and outstanding communications team."
Before joining FPU, Mock was director of public relations at Thielen & Associates, a regional advertising and public relations firm. She has also owned a writing and consulting business. Mock has a bachelor's degree from California State University, Fresno, and a master's degree from FPU, where she teaches in an adjunct capacity in the School of Business. She is active in area organizations including the Community Food Bank, Fresno Stewardship Initiative and NorthPointe Community Church, where she is on the adult leadership team. Her husband, Rob, is a financial planner and their daughter, Megan, is an alumnus of FPU and CSUF.
"Diana has proven herself to be a strategic thinker and a collaborative leader," Menjares said. Among her strengths is the ability to work well with other parts of the university, such as the regional centers and the three admissions areas: traditional undergraduate, bachelor's degree completion and graduate.
Menjares cited Mock's professional expertise and connections to leaders in the media and community. "Diana has helped position FPU as a leader," he said.