Benton named Brand and Communications Director at the Mitchell Institute

Jared Cash, President and CEO of the Mitchell Institute, announced today that Lauren Benton has joined the organization as its new Brand and Communications Director. In this role, Benton will lead communications and storytelling efforts to amplify the voices of Mitchell Scholars and expand awareness of the life-changing work happening across Maine.

“Lauren is a perfect fit for us,” said Jared Cash. “Her passion for supporting first-generation college students, combined with her abilities to build brand awareness and create compelling communications, makes her an ideal addition.”

Benton comes to the Mitchell Institute with a background in both higher education and media. She most recently served as Assistant Director of Graduate Enrollment Marketing at Mississippi State University, where she honed her skills in brand awareness and compelling communications.

In her role, Benton will serve as the Institute’s chief content and communications officer, responsible for multimedia and traditional communications that increase the organization’s reputation and appeal to its growing network of supporters.

“The Mitchell Institute has built an extraordinary reputation for not only supporting students financially but also equipping them with the networks and skills to thrive,” Benton said. “I look forward to strengthening the Institute’s brand, amplifying the voices of Scholars, and expanding awareness of the life-changing work happening across Maine’s communities.”

Benton holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Memphis and a master’s degree in communication and media studies from Mississippi State University.