PHILADELPHIA -- Lori N. Doyle, vice president for external affairs of the American Water Works Company, Inc. in Voorhees, N.J., has been named director of communications at the University of Pennsylvania, effective February 1, according to an announcement by Penn President Judith Rodin.

In her new position, Doyle will be responsible for the development and implementation of a long-term communications strategy for the University. She will oversee the University's internal and external communications operations; enhance communication of the many contributions Penn's faculty, students and staff make to higher education, research and society; and serve as a key advisor the president and other senior officers of the University.

"Lori is a superb communications professional who has extensive knowledge of the University and broad experience in all aspects of internal and external communications," Rodin said. "Her expertise in these areas will enable her to lead Penn's communications operations forward in a strategic and progressive manner, and she will be a valuable new member of the University's senior management team."

Doyle joined the American Water Works Company, Inc. in August 2000, where she was responsible for developing a long-term strategic communications plan, increasing the company's visibility and enhancing its public image.

For the previous eight years, Doyle served as Chief Public Affairs Officer for the University of Pennsylvania Health System (UPHS). In this role, she was responsible for the development and direction of all strategic communications designed to promote achievements of UPHS in education, research, and patient care. She was also responsible for the development and implementation of internal communications and oversaw community affairs programs and projects.

Before joining the Health System in 1992, Doyle worked for a number of years in increasingly responsible management positions with several public relations firms in Philadelphia, culminating in her service as General Manager of the Philadelphia office of Golin/Harris Communications, Inc.

She received her undergraduate degree from Temple University and a Master's degree in Communications from Ohio University.

Doyle is a member of the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC); and the Public Relations Society of America.