Monique “Nicky” Everette Named VP of Brand at the National Geographic Society

As assistant dean for marketing and communications in ARHU, Everette ‘raised the profile of the arts and humanities on campus, nationally and internationally.’

By ARHU Staff

After serving the College of Arts and Humanities at the University of Maryland for 14 years, Monique “Nicky” Everette, assistant dean for marketing and communications, will leave the university on June 3, 2022 and transition into a new role at the National Geographic Society as vice president of brand. 

“We are so grateful for Nicky’s work in ARHU and she will be sorely missed,” said ARHU Dean Bonnie Thornton Dill. “Her work has helped raise the profile of the arts and humanities on campus, nationally and internationally.” 

Everette was ARHU’s first director of communications from 2008 until 2012, then director of marketing and communications from 2012 until her promotion to assistant dean in 2018. She now oversees a team of some 20 marketing and communications staff across the college. 

She has developed and refined the college’s messaging, led planning and promotion for major college and campus events, overseen the development of the college’s web transformation project and developed and implemented an integrated marketing and communications program to advance the college’s strategic plan. She also spearheaded arts and culture marketing across the university, launching the “Arts for All” campaign, which leverages the combined power of the arts, technology and social justice to collaboratively address the world’s grand challenges. Her work has helped recruit students; promote and support college departments, centers and programs; and help keep alumni, donors and arts patrons connected and excited through a variety of audience-focused communications. 

In her new role, Everette will be responsible for developing brand initiatives that optimize the National Geographic brand and further the mission and appeal of National Geographic Society. She will establish strategies to reach global audiences in relevant and meaningful ways. 

“Nicky’s departure will be felt by countless students, staff, faculty and alumni within ARHU and across campus,” Thornton Dill said, adding: “I will miss her enthusiasm and spirit of collaboration and her commitment to our people and our work. She has been a dear colleague and friend and I feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to partner with her over the past 11 years of my deanship.”  

Effective June 6, 2022, Rika Dixon White will serve as acting assistant dean for marketing and communications. Since 2016, she has been the director of marketing in ARHU, supporting the performing arts at Maryland in the areas of messaging, branding, advertising, creative strategy, digital experience and guest experience. She has led bold campaigns that leverage audience data, integrate analytics and elevate key messages to address distinct strategic priorities across the college. White has also played a significant role in development and recruitment efforts and has bolstered campuswide initiatives including Arts for All. Prior to working at the University of Maryland, White served as director of marketing and sales for the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. With nearly 20 years of nonprofit arts experience, she has also held positions with Jane Franklin Dance, Joy of Motion Dance Center and Community Wealth Partners.