University of Chicago Medicine names new director of corporate, community communications

University of Chicago Medicine names new director of corporate, community communications

September 18, 2014

David Rudd, a veteran public relations and strategic communications executive, has been named director of corporate and community communications at the University of Chicago Medicine, effective Sept. 8.

In this new position, Rudd, a former vice president at Weber Shandwick, a global public relations firm, will be responsible for all internal communications, provide ongoing support for executive communications, and work with UChicago Medicine leaders to support strategic and annual operating plans.

In addition, he will develop and execute outreach plans with UChicago Medicine's various community and diversity-oriented departments, such as the Urban Health Initiative, to strengthen the university's presence within the community. He will also be an important member of the Community Benefit Steering Committee.

"David is an extremely accomplished professional who will lead strategic communications internally and externally and strengthen our many community-based initiatives," said Kathy DeVries, vice president for marketing and communications.

At Weber Shandwick, Rudd was a leader on teams serving the U.S. Army, Bank of America, Chicago United and other clients. He directed diversity and inclusion communications, national partnerships, and media relations for these clients and others.

Prior to Weber Shandwick, Rudd held senior communications positions at Motorola and the Illinois State Senate. He began his career as a reporter with the Chicago Tribune, where his story coverage included public education and technology.

"It as an honor to join the communications and marketing team of UChicago Medicine," Rudd said. "I'm excited to play a role in the care that this institution provides to patients and the scientific innovation that it provides to the world."

Rudd is a graduate of Northwestern University's Medill School of Journalism.

He is a vice president of Prevent Child Abuse America, and he sits on the boards of the Leadership Fellows Association of Leadership Greater Chicago, and the Black Public Relations Society of Chicago.

He and his family live in Chicago's Beverly community.