1/8/97

ATHENS, Ohio -- Two-time Ohio University graduate Pam Vander Ark has been named assistant director for alumni services at her alma mater.

Vander Ark, 32, spent the past six years serving as executive director of the Athens County Convention and Visitors Bureau, where she has worked closely with the university. She began her new position Dec. 2.

In the Office of Alumni Relations, Vander Ark's primary responsibilities will be to enhance the alumni career network and liaison services to 14 of Ohio University's 61 alumni chapters, and work with career service and recruitment areas. She'll also develop the office's credit card and insurance programs.

We are thrilled to have someone with Pam's obvious qualifications on staff," said Richard Harrison, director of alumni relations. Pam's experience in public relations, working with volunteers, marketing and organizing major special events will serve our alumni well."

Vander Ark, an Akron native, graduated from Ohio University with a master's degree in politicial science in 1990 and a bachelor's in political science in 1986. She is a member of the advisory committee of the campus' Institute for Local Government Administration and Rural Development and a former vice president of the Ohio Association of Convention and Visitor Bureaus. She also currently serves on the board of directors of Tri-County Community Action Agency and the Enterprise Development Corporation, a nonprofit agency providing aid for small businesses in 30 counties.

I really love Ohio University and am looking forward to working with our outstanding alumni base and the entire faculty and staff," Vander Ark said.