Melodie Jackson has been appointed associate dean for communications and public affairs at Harvard Law School.
Jackson most recently served as assistant vice president of communications at Harvard University, providing strategic counsel and support to the university’s leadership and its many schools and departments. She oversaw media relations, the Harvard Gazette, the university’s digital and social media presence, and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences communications team.
“Melodie is known across the university as a strategic partner and colleague, respected not only for her skills and experience, but also for her collegiality, integrity, and collaborative, solution-oriented approach,” said Harvard Law School Dean John F. Manning ’85. “I am thrilled she is joining our community, and I know we will benefit greatly from her leadership and expertise.”
“Harvard Law School is an extraordinary place that has made a significant and lasting impact on society,” said Jackson. “I am honored to be joining this remarkable community of faculty, staff, students and alumni who are committed to the highest ideals of law and justice and to making a positive difference in the world.”
For 11 years, Jackson served as associate dean for communications and public affairs at Harvard Kennedy School. She directed the Kennedy School’s communications efforts, and developed and led numerous strategic initiatives aimed at raising the school’s visibility and amplifying its academic programs and faculty research.
Prior to joining Harvard in 2005, Jackson was the director of news and public affairs for Stanford Medical School and Hospital, and subsequently served as senior vice president and director of public affairs at Citizens Bank of Massachusetts. She holds a master’s degree in public administration from Harvard Kennedy School.