University of Iowa President Sally Mason has selected Tom Rocklin, vice president for student life, and Richard Fumerton, a professor of philosophy and past president of the Faculty Senate, to chair a committee to search for a new vice president for strategic communication.

The position, which reports directly to Mason, administers University Communication and Marketing, which is comprised of News Services, Creative Services, Marketing and Media Production, and The Hawkeye Network. The vice president also administers the UI Alumni Association and Hancher Auditorium.

Mason says the committee, which is still being assembled, would begin the search after the first of the year.

"We have made tremendous strides in more aggressively promoting the profound impact that the University of Iowa is making on Iowa and the world, and I intend for that great momentum to continue,” Mason says.

Tysen Kendig is leaving the post for a similar position at the University of Connecticut. Mark Braun, the chief of staff for the office of the president, will serve as interim vice president for strategic communication effective Jan. 3.

Braun, who has served as chief of staff since 2008, has more than 20 years of experience working with the university, the Board of Regents Office, the Iowa Legislature, the Governor's Office, and congressional offices.