YSU Names Communications Special Assistant
YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — Youngstown State University today announced a new strategic communications function with Tim Harrington selected as the new special assistant to the president for strategic communications, effective Monday.
“Youngstown State University has a proud legacy of providing a world class education to students from across the globe,” said YSU President Bill Johnson in a news release. “And our choice of education alternatives is growing. YSU provides the full continuum of higher education alternatives, from credentials and certifications for early entry into the workforce, to associates, bachelors, masters and doctoral degrees.”
He said YSU faculty and staff produce exceptional graduates who go on to make positive contributions to the region, state and nation.
Through these programs, our amazing faculty and staff turn out exceptional graduates who go on to make positive contributions to our region, state and nation.
“So, it is important that we tell the YSU story,” Johnson said.
Harrington “brings a wealth of leadership experience from the U.S. Navy and the private sector to the table, and after a nationwide search and interviews with dozens of potential candidates, we are confident we made the right selection,” Johnson said. “He is an exceptional leader, a true team builder, and his dedication to YSU is evident every day.”
Harrington has served as the special assistant to the president as an executive assistant since January 2024. Prior to joining YSU, Harrington held the position of chief operating officer at BOC Water Hydraulics in Salem for over nine years.
A native of Salem, Harrington graduated from YSU in 1988 with a bachelor’s degree in finance. He furthered his education with an MBA from the University of Georgia and completed the Executive Education Advanced Management Program at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business.
In 2014, Harrington retired at the rank of captain from the U.S. Navy after a distinguished 25-year career. He served in senior leadership positions on four aircraft carriers, a guided missile frigate and on numerous large staffs during his military service. His final position was the deputy chief of staff for logistics and ordnance for the Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.
In addition to his professional achievements, Harrington has been actively involved in various community and educational initiatives, including serving as part-time faculty at YSU from 2016-2020.
“I am truly honored and humbled to be given this opportunity,” said Harrington. “I have a deep affection for YSU, and I am eager to contribute back to the university that has given me so much.”
Harrington is a graduated Fellow and mentor of the CS Lewis Institute of NE Ohio, a mentor for the Severn Leadership Group and president of the Salem Ohio Alumni Association.
Harrington and his wife, Laura, have been married for 30 years and have two grown children.
Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.
