SLU 10880
 SONIAT
APPOINTED EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT TO PRESIDENT
HAMMOND -- Karen Meredith Soniat of Baton Rouge has been appointed executive assistant to Southeastern Louisiana University President Randy Moffett. She joined the university staff on Monday, Sept. 9. A former education senior consultant and executive assistant in the Louisiana Department of Education, Soniat has more than 25 years experience in education, governmental and public affairs, and media relations. As executive assistant to the president, she will assist in the management of the university’s executive office, coordinate university affairs with private and public agencies, oversee the development and implementation of Southeastern’s strategic marketing plan and direct the operations of the Public Information Office. “Dr. Soniat’s proven record of leadership, her extensive experience in working with government agencies, business and the media, and her familiarity with all levels of education are among the many assets she brings to this position,” Moffett said. “Her work in the areas of strategic planning and marketing and special projects coordination will help Southeastern as we focus on our on-going efforts to attract excellent students to the university and enhance our partnerships with area businesses and educational institutions.” Soniat holds a doctorate in educational leadership and research, a master’s degree in education and a bachelor of science degree in secondary art education, all from Louisiana State University. Her tenure with the state Department of Education includes serving as administrative officer in the Office of the Assistant Superintendent for Academic Programs; special assistant and grants administrator in Special Educational Services; executive assistant to the state superintendent and deputy superintendent, and liaison to the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education. Soniat also served as an education and public relations specialist in the Department of Education’s Bureau of Research and Information Service. She started her career in education as a middle and junior high school teacher in Ascension and East Baton Rouge parishes. A former chair for the Governor’s Commission on Community and National Service, she also serves on the Louisiana Children’s Cabinet Advisory Board and the Louisiana Children’s Trust Fund. She has been an active volunteer for the United Way, serving last year as campaign chair for the Department of Education. |