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Contact: Tracie Stone
Ph: 603-493-2647
E-mail: traciestone@comcast.net

LUFKIN TO LEAD MARKETING EFFORTS AT GRANITE STATE COLLEGE

March 23, 2008 - CONCORD -  Mary Beth Lufkin has recently been named Director of Marketing and Communications for Granite State College.

Lufkin will oversee advertising and promotion of Granite State College’s academic offerings and programs, coordinate communications and manage the institution’s branding efforts from her office at the College’s Concord Center on Old Suncook Road.

“With centers throughout the state and a robust offering of online programs, Granite State College brings higher education within the reach of New Hampshire students of all ages,” said Lufkin. “Because of its broad reach and accessibility, I'm honored to be responsible for promoting the college as a part of the University System of New Hampshire.”

Lufkin holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing from Rivier College in Nashua, a Masters degree in Student Personnel Administration in Higher Education from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana and brings 20 years of experience in marketing, sales and communications to her new position. 
Prior to joining Granite State College, Lufkin served the Greater Manchester Family YMCA in a similar capacity.  She has also owned and operated a local franchise of the business and franchise coaching organization, “The Entrepreneur’s Source,” and was vice president of marketing for St. Mary’s Bank in Manchester.

“MB is a perfect fit for GSC,” said Ron Blankenstein, special assistant to Granite State College President, Dr. Karol LaCroix.  “She not only possesses all of the professional skills we need in communications and marketing but also has the personal spirit, energy and commitment that connect to our institutional mission, vision and core values.”

Lufkin lives in Auburn with her husband, Kim and son, Andrew and enjoys traveling, soccer, volleyball and biking.

Granite State College is one of four University System of New Hampshire institutions and a leader in online education.  It offers associate and bachelor degrees, post-baccalaureate programs for teacher education and transfer opportunities.

With nine academic centers located throughout New Hampshire, Granite State College is committed to delivering affordable and convenient access to higher education via innovative programming.