Every month, the Administrative/Professional (A/P) Council highlights an A/P staff member through a series of questions as another way for the Illinois State University community to connect. This month, readers get to know Brian Beam, M.S. ’94, M.B.A. ’10, executive director of University Marketing and Communications.
Job title/Position: Executive director of University Marketing and Communications
Job duties: The executive director leads the University Marketing and Communications, Printing Services, and Mail Services group of around 30 people plus student staff. There are a lot of administrative duties, committees, and special projects involved. The variety makes my work always interesting and often refreshing. I also field a number of random requests and special projects for administrative and academic clients. These are some of my favorite interactions with folks across campus, learning about their initiatives and communications needs. I stay in touch with marketers and communicators throughout campus, develop creative solutions to their communication needs, and/or execute initiatives on their behalf.
How long have you been an employee at ISU?: 15 years. It’s been, at once, the most challenging and most fulfilling years of my life. I worked at a local agency for 17 years before starting at the University where I gained a wide swath of knowledge about “all” things marketing and communications.
What do you love most about working at ISU?: The spirit and enthusiasm for the power of education that emanates from so many of our faculty and staff. Most people are here to make a difference in students’ lives, and the dedication to that mission resonates. It’s infectious and invigorating. Our institution transforms lives, and that is inspiring work. I feel very fortunate to be marketing a “product” I so strongly believe in.
What is one fact about yourself that might surprise people? I’m in a band with one of my colleagues, Dr. Tony Piña, director of online learning, and retired graphic design professor, John Walker. Our crew, The Rusty Pickups, plays classic rock songs and country-twinged tunes at community festivals and venues throughout the area. We are fortunate to have an outstanding rehearsal space at Dr. Susan Hildebrant’s home! Susan’s husband, Marc Andelman, is in the band, and they are wonderful hosts for our weekly band practice.
When you’re not working, what are you most likely doing?: You will find me out playing open mic events throughout Bloomington-Normal. Over the last year, I’ve become part of the open mic community and have made a number of new musician friends. The community is very supportive, and I enjoy playing every week immensely.
What is your favorite spot on campus?: I think I am the only person on campus who likes the Center for Visual Art. I have such a nostalgia for that building. It takes me back to the time when I was a master’s student, and I love looking at the latest prints and design projects in the first-floor hallway. People run it down for being run down (and I’m very much looking forward to the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts Transformation Building Project), but I admit, I still love to walk the halls there.
What quote most inspires you? Why?: “Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.” —Oscar Wilde. My true nature is creative, so I value originality and authenticity. Also, the line uses humor that helps make the point resonate.
