MEDIA CONTACT: Kristine M. McGrath
561-297-1168, kmcgrath@fau.edu

FAU Names New Directors

BOCA RATON, FL (February 9, 2005) - Florida Atlantic University has named a new director to the Office of Governmental Relations and the newly created Office of Community Relations to assist in enhancing FAU's relationship with the community-at-large. Tom Barlow has been named director of governmental relations and Jennifer O'Flannery has been named director of community relations.

Tom Barlow will begin at FAU after serving as senior manager of southern law and public policy at MCI. As director of governmental relations, Barlow will serve as the university's liaison to elected representatives, government agencies and other organizations. He is responsible for monitoring pending and proposed legislation, policy analysis and promoting the interests of FAU with the state legislature, members of the governor's cabinet, the Department of Education, congressional members, staff and the Florida Board of Governors.

"As a 20 year resident of Palm Beach County, I recognize the excellence of our students, faculty and the greater community," said Barlow. "That is why I am joining President Brogan's team. I look forward to our journey that will make FAU a world renowned university."

Barlow holds a master's degree in environmental engineering from Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. He will start his new position at the beginning of February.

Jennifer O'Flannery is the director of the new Office of Community Relations. She has served FAU in a number of other capacities over the past four years, including director of the Baldwin House and special assistant to the president. As director of community relations, O'Flannery works to develop and enhance relations with a wide range of constituent groups. She is engaged in numerous outreach efforts with local neighborhoods and schools, cities and residents.

"Being a good neighbor and valued member of the communities FAU serves is a critical priority of FAU, especially for the university's president and Board of Trustees," said O'Flannery.

O'Flannery holds a master's degree in mass communications from the University of South Florida.

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