Casey was honored during the Professional Master’s Fall Forum and Annual Lecture.
The Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication’s Professional Master’s in Strategic Communication Program honored Lynn Casey (M.A. ’80) with the Aluminary Award during the program’s Fall Forum and Annual Lecture, held at McNamara Alumni Center on Oct. 24, 2024. The award, presented by Hubbard School Director Elisia Cohen, recognizes Casey’s exceptional career, her commitment to the industry, and her generosity to not only the Hubbard School but also the Professional Master’s Program, where she sits on the professional advisory board.
When presenting Casey with the award, Cohen said, “What truly sets Lynn apart is her unwavering commitment to giving back to her alma mater. She provides strategic guidance that has helped shape the direction of our programs. As a volunteer, she has generously given her time and expertise to support our initiatives. And as a frequent guest speaker, she has inspired countless students with her insights and experiences, bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world practice.”
Casey retired into full-time corporate board service, nonprofit governance and community impact after leading employee-owned communication firm Padilla to top 10 U.S. independent ranking through organic growth and coast-to-coast acquisitions prior to a sale to holding company AVENIR GLOBAL. Casey is regarded as a straight shooter with well-honed business judgment, a collaborative style, and a passion for brand building, reputation management, and inclusive growth and cultures.
Casey is currently an independent director at Xcel Energy. Recent private-company boards include Walman Optical, Walker Sands (private equity-backed digital marketing firm) and Surly Brewing (advisory board to family business). She has chaired or served on the executive committees of numerous nonprofit and industry boards (chair and/or executive committees), including her role as past chair of the University of Minnesota Foundation.
The Aluminary Award is a symbol of outstanding excellence, a testament to the substantial impact one individual can have on the strategic communication profession and acts as a reminder of the inspirational legacy left by the School’s esteemed alumni. Congratulations to Lynn Casey.
Find out more information about the Professional Master's in Strategic Communication.