Laura Wilcox, well known nationally in the higher ed communications community, has launched a consultancy to deliver national visibility, communications strategy and media management to colleges and universities nationwide, as well as to associations and nonprofit organizations.

The new Maryland-based firm, WilcoxM3, LLC, draws upon a network of communications experts to provide a range of PR services, including strategic communications, crisis communications, media relations, op-ed training, social media strategies, marketing strategies, writing and editing large projects, creative design, campaign communications, perceptions research and branding.

“Our mission is to help campus and nonprofit leaders and communications officers take strategic communications and media relations to the highest levels of performance, meet ambitious marketing goals, and deliver results from complex public relations events and programs,” Wilcox said in an announcement. “I am passionate about helping campus and nonprofit leaders articulate their vision, develop substantive relationships with the media, and effectively share their stories with their communities and the wider society,” she added.

Wilcox launched the consulting firm after having served the D.C.-based Council of Independent Colleges (CIC) for 17 years as vice president for communications and the American Council on Education as assistant director for public affairs for six years. While at CIC, Wilcox built and led a media relations operation, established partnerships between CIC and national and trade media organizations, and built strong relationships with national and regional journalists.

The Baltimore office of Weber Shandwick announced the promotion of Dan Brenner to Vice President, Digital. With a decade of experience in web design, consulting and digital management, Brenner has led digital campaigns and projects for North American clients of Weber Shandwick since 2011. According to a release, he has provided digital communications strategy, platform solutions and program leadership in the healthcare, government, food, energy, transportation and technology sectors.  His clients have included BWI Marshall Airport, Constellation, BGE, National Education Association (NEA), Maryland Health Benefit Exchange and other corporations and associations.