The Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine has made two strategic hires to enhance its capabilities as it prepares to support a new series of fundraising campaigns and increase its digital communications and marketing capability.

Kevin Myatt will bring his extensive experience as a writer and journalist to support the communications team as the principal writer and editor. Kevin was an editor and writer for daily newspapers for 34 years, most recently 23 years at The Roanoke Times, where he often served as night editor, guiding the publication to press time. 

An avid hiker attracted to the mountainous terrain of western Virginia, Kevin became known to many in the region for his weather column in The Roanoke Times and weather-related blog and social media posts -- he continues to cover regional weather on a freelance basis. He co-edited the book "Hurricanes and the Middle Atlantic States" and had several articles published for The Washington Post's "Capital Weather Gang."  He has also helped lead 14 storm chase trips to the Plains states for Virginia Tech’s meteorology program.

An Arkansas native and Arkansas State University graduate with a Bachelor of Science in journalism, Kevin resides with his wife Erica and two sons near the Blue Ridge Parkway in southern Roanoke County. 

Margie Christianson, as the Communications Manager, brings her in-depth knowledge of digital communications to drive the college's online presence and help support a broader community-building focus. Margie is a high-key dog mom and communications creative professional specializing in graphic design and photography and has a growing interest in videography and social media strategy. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Communications Arts and Literature and Master of Science in Mass Communication from St. Cloud State University.

In her career, Margie has worn the hats of graphic designer, photographer, creative writing instructor, operations manager, and communications manager. Most recently, she served as the assistant director of Communications and Marketing for ExperienceVT. She led a team of interns and professionals to elevate the many opportunities for students to match their time with their talents and make lifelong friends while at Virginia Tech.

A Minnesota native, she enjoys drinking cocoa on crisp Fall days and exploring local hiking trails with her two Pembroke Welsh Corgis. She is active in several dog-enthusiast clubs within the New River Valley and competes in agility, disc dog, and more.

Margie is excited to match her passion and purpose by joining the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine and  uplift the stories of such talented students, staff, scholars, and practitioners.

Contact:

Andrew Mann
Director of Communications and Marketing