Laura A. Jackson of Chicago, a strategic management and communications expert, joined DePaul University’s Office of Advancement on Oct.17 as director of Advancement Planning and Special Projects. In this newly created position, Jackson will lead strategic planning processes across operational and programmatic areas and implement quality improvement initiatives. She will assist in the management of Advancement activities for the Rev. Dennis H. Holtschneider, C.M., DePaul president, and provide support to Mary Finger, senior vice president of Advancement, on project planning and implementation, as well as provide research and writing on special topics.

Prior to joining DePaul, Jackson was founder and principal of CJI Management Group, where she provided marketing and communications strategy, strategic planning and process improvement expertise for a diverse range of corporate and nonprofit clients.

Between 1997 and 2002, Jackson held several positions at Underwriters Laboratories Inc. Among her many accomplishments, Jackson rebuilt the company’s $6 million global communications and public affairs operation, which she was responsible for formulating strategic and corporate plans in support of UL’s global corporate goals.

From 1995 until 1997, Jackson served as advisor to University of Chicago President Hugo Sonnenschein, counseling him on university-wide initiatives, programs and policy issues.

Jackson earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in international studies at University of the Pacific, College of the Pacific in Stockton, Calif., a Master of Science degree in European studies at University of London, London School of Economics, and a doctor of philosophy in political science at the University of Chicago.

DePaul is the largest Catholic university in the nation and the eighth-largest private university in the United States. A richly diverse population of 23,148 students attends classes on two city and four suburban campuses.

Contact: Audrey Nagelberg, Director, Advancement Communications: 312/362-5897 or anagelbe@depaul.edu .