Garryn Marlen, MA
Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications
Garryn Marlen, MA, currently serves as the Assistant Director of Marketing and Communications and is passionate in supporting and enhancing the health of others. As a communications professional since 2015, Garryn is thrilled to be a part of a community of leaders committed to transformative student success in health and wellness.
While earning her Master of Arts in Communication from Saint Louis University, Garryn worked in the College of Arts and Sciences, managing their social media and creating videos highlighting programs within the college.
Upon graduation, Garryn joined the World Council of Optometry (WCO) as the Marketing Communications Specialist managing all communications. After about two and a half years, Garryn was promoted to Associate Managing Director, directing communication, membership, governance, finance, and fundraising initiatives alongside the Managing Director.
Garryn developed an interest in fundraising and decided to explore the fundraising space further by joining the American Optometric Association’s charity as their Development Manager. Garryn developed and implemented philanthropic and program funding strategies, cultivated donor relationships, researched and developed grant proposals, led fundraising appeals, managed strategic planning efforts, and planned Board meetings.
Garryn is delighted to be a part of a diverse and engaging community committed to excellence in health sciences, education, and service. In her spare time, Garryn enjoys spending time with her family and friends, walking her dog, and reading.