Prescott, Arizona (Aug. 14, 2025) – Yavapai College has hired a new Executive Director of Marketing and Communications, Chris Minnick. In addition to overseeing the college’s Marketing and Communications department, Chris will also serve as the Public Information Officer for the Office of the President, Dr. Lisa Rhine.
Chris Minnick is an award-winning communications and marketing professional with more than 28 years of experience. Chris began his career in 1997 at the New Mexico Border Health Office, serving as Public Relations Manager. From 2000 to 2001, he worked at New Mexico State University as a Media Relations Manager and News Writer.
In 2001, Chris began his public health career at the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH), where he held several positions including Public Relations Director, Deputy Communications Director, and Communications Director. While at NMDOH, he promoted public health programs and services to help build healthier communities across the state. He also served as the statewide Communications Director for the H1N1 pandemic in 2008.
In 2013, Chris moved to Arizona to join the Arizona Department of Health Services, where he held multiple leadership roles, including Marketing Director and Communications Director. His work there earned several national awards from the American Advertising Federation and two Emmy Awards from the Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. Chris also served as statewide Director of Communications for the COVID-19 pandemic, overseeing all communications and marketing activities for ADHS and all state agencies responding to the crisis.
Originally from Baltimore, Maryland, Chris grew up in the small northern New Mexico community of Jemez Valley, where he graduated from high school. He attended New Mexico State University, studying journalism and mass communications, and studied communications theory at Johns Hopkins University. In his free time, Chris enjoys taking road trips with his wife, riding his motorcycle, photography, and spending time with his German Shepherd, Edelweiss.
Yavapai College operates seven campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, four baccalaureate degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities. To learn more about YC, visit www.yc.edu.