Marian Catholic High School in Hometown appointed Samantha Schugardt as its first director of strategic communications.

She began her full-time role last month.

Schugardt will lead the development and execution of a comprehensive marketing and communications strategy to strengthen Marian’s visibility, enrollment efforts and community engagement.

She has more than a decade of experience in communications, marketing and program leadership, particularly within educational and nonprofit arts settings.

Her background also includes work as an artistic director with the Pennsylvania Theatre of Performing Arts, where she managed multiplatform campaigns, built organizational branding and increased audience engagement through strategic storytelling.

Schugardt earned a bachelor’s degree from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and has extensive experience in social media strategy, graphic design, website management, photography, videography and public relations.

“This is an exciting moment for Marian Catholic as we continue to invest in our future,” the Rev. Robert Finlan, principal, said. “Samantha brings creativity, energy and a strong background in storytelling and communications that will help us share the Marian experience more effectively with prospective families, alumni, and our broader community. We are thrilled to welcome her as we build this important new area for the school.”