Office of the Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost Communications Manager Marielle Pocan plans to retire effective January 1, 2026. Provost Warwick Arden made the announcement today.
“I’ve worked with Marielle in several capacities over the years, and she is an incredibly knowledgeable, dedicated professional who ensures streamlined communications throughout the Provost’s Office,” said Arden. “I am grateful to have had her on the Provost’s Office team these last fifteen years, and I know her hard work has set the bar for communications across the university. During this transition to a new and exciting phase of life, I want to congratulate her on an outstanding career and send best wishes to her and her family.”
Pocan joined NC State in 2006 as a public engagement and internal relations liaison in the College of Veterinary Medicine.She started working in the Provost’s Office in 2010 as assistant to the provost for internal communications, became assistant to the provost for communications in 2015, and then communications manager in 2024.
During Pocan’s tenure in the Provost’s Office, she has transformed communications efforts, starting with just herself and growing a team that she now manages. In addition to supporting the communication needs of Arden and the Provost’s Office, she and the other members of her team serve as a communications resource for several vice provost units, including the Office of Academic Innovation, Strategy and Solutions, the Office of Equal Opportunity, Institutional Effectiveness, University Data and Analytics, and the Office of University Interdisciplinary Programs. Throughout her time in the Provost’s Office, Pocan has also worked closely with other lead communicators across NC State on messaging for universitywide initiatives and efforts, including strategic planning and academic continuity during the pandemic.
Pocan’s path to a communications career has been unique. She holds a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering and worked in the public and private sector for five years, becoming a registered engineer in the mid-nineties before transitioning to owning a small stationery and gift wrapping business. Immediately prior to coming to NC State, Pocan worked at Lutheran Family Services as a development assistant, where she learned the value of communication and connection and how crucial they are to making the world a better place.
“I am extremely grateful to work at NC State alongside so many talented and creative people who value this university as much as I do,” said Pocan. “I’m not sure what the future holds for me, but I am excited that my husband will also be retiring later in 2026. Next year will be focused on curiosity and exploration.”
The Provost’s Office communications team reports to Chief of Staff Kelly Wick. She will lead the team throughout the recruitment process for Pocan’s replacement, and will reach out to all units supported by the team to ensure a smooth transition and uninterrupted workflow. Details regarding the search will be shared with key stakeholders at a later date.
