WEST LAFAYETTE — Erin Murphy, a communication strategist and former press secretary to Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb, has been named Purdue University’s senior media and public relations director.
Murphy, who stepped into the role on Sept. 9, reports to Julie Rosa, vice president of communications, and will work closely with the university’s senior officers, including the president, provost, and treasurer.
“Erin is a recognized leader and strategist with extensive experience in media and public relations,” Rosa said. “Her communication and media strategy background will be instrumental in advancing Purdue’s key initiatives. I am excited to have her on our team.”
Murphy will lead the media and public relations teams responsible for planning, developing, and implementing communication and media strategies for Purdue and its priority initiatives. Acting as the university’s primary spokesperson, she will build and maintain relationships with media outlets and reporters to promote and protect the university’s reputation, priorities, and interests. Murphy also will provide media-related guidance and direction to all entities throughout the Purdue system.
“Purdue is an innovative leader and a brand with true impact,” Murphy said. “I look forward to collaborating with the talented team of communicators and marketers here to achieve great things together.”
Since 2021, Murphy has served as press secretary and senior advisor to Holcomb. There, she developed and implemented strategic communication plans and worked with statewide media to convey the governor’s initiatives.
Prior to that role, Murphy served as communications director for the Indiana Department of Child Services from 2018-21 and the city of Westfield, Indiana, from 2013-18. She was also a news anchor and reporter for WISH-TV in Indianapolis, WICD-TV in Champaign, Illinois, WTHI-TV in Terre Haute, Indiana, and a news reporter for KLKN-TV in Lincoln, Nebraska.
Murphy earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in journalism from Indiana University and a Master of Arts degree in public relations from Ball State University.
