Four Women Named to Administrative Posts at the University of Arkansas

Joseph Steinmetz, the incoming chancellor of the University of Arkansas, has appointed four women to key posts in his administration.

Laura Jacobs was named chief of staff. She has been serving as associate vice chancellor for university relations at the University of Arkansas. Before being named associate vice chancellor in 2014, Jacobs was director of communications for the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Earlier she was senior director of strategic communications at the University of Arkansas. Jacobs holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in higher education administration from the University of Arkansas.

Marcia Overby was appointed associate vice chancellor of administration. She has been on the staff at the university fo 30 years and worked in the chancellor’s office for the past 22 years. Dr. Overby holds bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in education from the University of Arkansas.

Sally Adams was named executive assistant to the chancellor. She has been on the staff at the university since 1998 and worked in the chancellor’s office since 2008. She began her career at the university’s law school before joining the Office of Advancement. Adams holds a bachelor’s degree in family studies from the University of Arizona.

Amy Schlesing was named acting director of strategic communications. In this role she will direct the publication of Research Frontiers, the university’s research magazine and website. Earlier in her career, Schlesing worked as deputy communications director for former U.S. Senator Mark Pryor. Schlesing is a graduate of the University of Arkansas, where she majored in journalism. She holds a master’s certificate in conflict resolution and communications from Missouri State University.