Tuesday, July 21, 2026 | 8:30 a.m.–noon
Join your UB colleagues in communications, marketing and enrollment for a half-day professional development session hosted by University Communications. The program will feature guest speaker Tamalyn W. Powell, a leader in higher education marketing, and conclude with the 2026 UB Communicators Awards.
During a time of growing skepticism and declining public trust in higher education, Powell argues we must reexamine our role as communicators. In her presentation, “How To Change Minds: The Art and Science of Persuasion,” she gives us the tools to do just that.
Speaker Bio
Tamalyn W. Powell
Tamalyn W. Powell is senior vice president at BVK, where she co-leads the agency’s higher education practice, bringing more than 25 years of experience in brand strategy, positioning and integrated marketing to her role. She has helped colleges, universities and systems across the country define their purpose, strengthen their brands and connect more meaningfully with their audiences. Powell also serves as president of the Board of Directors for Serve Marketing, the nation’s only all-volunteer advertising agency, which has delivered millions of dollars in pro bono work for causes ranging from public health to education. A recognized thought leader and speaker, she is passionate about helping higher education reclaim its narrative and communicate its essential role in shaping a stronger society.
Schedule
8:30-9:15 a.m. Light breakfast and networking
9:15-9:30 a.m. Welcome remarks
9:30-11 a.m. Presentation by Tamalyn W. Powell
11:00-11:15 a.m. Break
11:15-11:45 a.m. Awards presentation
11:45 a.m.-noon Closing remarks
2026 UB Communicators Awards
Prepare your entries for the 2026 UB Communicators Awards! New this year: a branded merchandise category. Submissions will be accepted for work completed between January 1 and December 31, 2025, and are due on May 29. If you have any questions about the categories or criteria, please email Devon Jerla at devonslo@buffalo.edu.
For more information:
Please contact Maria Matusak at mariaber@buffalo.edu or 716-645-4093.