David W. Martel is the Vice President for Communications and Chief Marketing Officer of the University of Virginia. Appointed in 2013, he leads institutional efforts to strengthen UVA’s positive reputation and increase awareness of its many accomplishments. He is responsible for content + story planning, collegiate licensing, creative, digital strategy, issues management, leadership communications, marketing + brand strategy, and media relations.
Martel is a member of the president’s cabinet and oversees UVA’s communication strategy. As the chief communicator on Grounds, he leads broad efforts to highlight UVA’s academic rigor, world-class research, vibrant student life, community contributions, commitment to service, athletic prowess, and overall achievements of the institution.
During his time at UVA, Martel has led a reorganization of the University Communications department establishing best-in-class teams and spearheaded two multi-year strategic plans. Martel serves on the UVA Wise College Foundation Board and engages in ad hoc pro bono consulting for higher education institutions. In 2021, he was awarded the Crockett Award, presented annually to an individual who has made significant contributions to strengthen the relationship between UVA and UVA Wise.
Martel previously served on the senior management teams for the University of Connecticut and the Roper Center for Public Opinion Research. His extensive work analyzing the mind and mood of the American public on cultural, economic, and political issues laid the foundation for a reliance on research assessment to measure the overall success of the organization he leads today. David is married to Kristen Martel, and they have five children.