Kincaid To Head University’s Public Relations Programs

An experienced college public relations professional with family ties to Oklahoma has been named director of public relations at Oklahoma Baptist University, announced OBU President Mark Brister Thursday afternoon. 

Zach Kincaid will direct OBU's public relations efforts effective June 1, 2003. Kincaid has served as director of publications and public relations at Trinity International University in Deerfield, Ill., since 2001. He has worked at the institution in suburban Chicago since 1999.

"We are delighted to have Zach join us," said Dr. Brister. "He will play a key role in our administrative team as we move forward in our mission of Christian higher education."

Kincaid replaces Marty O'Gwynn, who had served as head of public relations since September 1999. O'Gwynn will continue in his role as executive director of the OBU Alumni Association.

"Zach has solid experience in higher education public relations, and has worked in marketing and promotion for a variety of businesses," said John A. Patterson, OBU senior vice president for development. "He has a demonstrated understanding of the role of a Christian university and the opportunities we have to maintain strong ties with varied stakeholders."

Kincaid will supervise a staff of four employees in OBU's public relations office, which is part of the university's overall development program.

A native of Brandon, Fla., Kincaid's maternal great-grandfather and maternal grandmother served as trustees of OBU early in the institution's 93-year history. His grandmother resides in Muskogee.

Kincaid studied at Samford University and completed a bachelor's degree in English from Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. He is working toward a master's degree in church history at Trinity International University.

Kincaid joined the TIU staff as public relations coordinator in 1999, managing media relations for on-campus events. He was promoted to communications coordinator for advancement in 2000, and was promoted to director of publications and public relations one year later. TIU is a fellow member with OBU in the Council for Christian Colleges and Universities, an international organization of approximately 100 evangelical higher education institutions.

Prior to joining TIU, Kincaid was marketing coordinator for SFX Entertaiment, marketing family concerts and conferences. He worked as promotions and events coordinator with Lifeway Christian Stores in Birmingham, Ala., from 1994-96. He has written numerous articles and devotional materials, and has served in a variety of local church volunteer positions.

Kincaid and his wife, Heather, have two young children.