Natalie Lutz to begin as KUMC communications director Oct. 27

KANSAS CITY, KANSAS — The University of Kansas Medical Center has selected a new director of communications.

Natalie Lutz, a communications professional with deep experience in the Kansas City market and in higher education, will begin Monday, Oct. 27. She succeeds David Martin, who had been in the role on an interim basis.

“Natalie will bring a range of talents to our communications effort, most importantly the experience of building and leading a team executing an integrated marketing and public relations strategy,” said Dr. Doug Girod, KUMC executive vice chancellor.

Lutz comes to KU from Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, where she was vice president for university relations. She supervised all strategic communications and marketing activities.

“I am honored to join the University of Kansas Medical Center team,” Lutz said. “As the leading provider of physicians and health care professionals in the state of Kansas, KU Medical Center plays a critical role in the lives of all Kansans. I look forward to helping expand awareness of the impact that the university has locally, regionally and nationally.”

Lutz was at KCUMB since 2005, in positions ranging from director of marketing and university relations to interim vice president for advancement. She was named vice president for university relations in 2011.

Before that, she was a senior account executive with Boasberg/Wheeler Communications, now part of Barkley, an advertising and marketing company in Kansas City.

Lutz earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from Baylor University. She is a member of the Public Relations Society of America.

“Her significant experience in the industry will help us to continue our elevation of the national regard of the medical center through our communications and outreach,” said Tim Caboni, vice chancellor for public affairs at KU.