FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Sept. 19, 2003
CONTACT: Lisa Lacher, (515) 271-3119

BENSCHOTER NAMED MARKETING DIRECTOR AT DRAKE

Brooke A. Benschoter, director of consumer communications for the National Pork Board, has been named director of marketing and communications at Drake University, effective Oct. 15.

Benschoter has had a 15-year career in corporate communications, advertising, public relations, brand management and marketing with organizations such as Pioneer Hi-Bred International Inc., Meredith Corp., ITAGroup and the National Pork Board.

" Brooke Benschoter will bring broad understanding and experience to the challenges of advancing Drake's public image, mission and working agenda," said John H. Willey, vice president for institutional advancement at Drake. "Plus, she has lived in Des Moines for 20 years and has taken an active interest in community and cultural initiatives, while also being recognized by professional organizations for her skill, creativity and achievement."

At Drake, Benschoter will be responsible for coordinating the efforts of the Office of Marketing and Communications, including advertising, publications, public relations, community relations, marketing and market research.

Benschoter holds the B.A. degree in mass communications, speech, English and business communications from Creighton University. She began her career as director of community affairs for the Omaha Community Playhouse in Omaha, Neb. She then served as assistant news director for KHAS TV in Hastings, Neb., before joining WHO TV, where she was a reporter, producer and assignment editor.

She also has been vice president, director of broadcast and video services for Anderson Communications Companies Inc. and public relations manager for Pioneer Hi-Bred's North American Seed Division. In addition, she was director of advertising and promotion for Meredith Corp.'s Better Homes and Gardens Books. Before joining the National Pork Board in 2001, Benschoter was director of brand management for ITAGroup.