BJ ’94, University of Missouri, Journalism
BS ’94, University of Missouri, History
MA ’01, Colorado State University, Communications

Joanie Straub is the director of planning and communications for the Missouri School of Journalism, where she leads the School’s overarching storytelling and content strategy. A proud alum of the School, Straub brings a unique blend of strategic thinking, creative leadership, and institutional insight to her work—ensuring the School’s voice remains vibrant, aligned, and forward-looking across platforms.

As a trusted advisor to the dean and member of the School’s leadership team, Straub helps shape the narrative direction of the School during a time of rapid change in journalism and higher education. She has served on three strategic planning committees—two for the School and one for the Donald W. Reynolds Journalism Institute—recognized for her ability to unite stakeholders, think big-picture, and drive communications that connect vision with audience. Straub also plays an essential role in recruitment and outreach efforts, working to attract students, build relationships, and elevate the School’s reputation both locally and nationally.

She leads a team of talented communicators and collaborates across departments to ensure all messaging reflects the excellence and energy of the Missouri Method. In addition to overseeing the School’s content and brand strategy, Straub’s team manages high-profile events that highlight the School’s mission, connect with alumni and partners, and showcase student and faculty achievement.She has also helped build strong relationships across the University of Missouri system, aligning communications efforts in ways that reinforce institutional goals and identity—while always keeping storytelling at the heart.

In addition to her leadership role at the School, Straub shares her skills with the next generation of communicators as an adjunct instructor of J1400, helping students develop the strong writing and messaging skills essential to today’s media and communication careers.

Prior to returning to Mizzou, Straub served as Division Chief of Outreach and Education for the Missouri Department of Conservation. As a member of the executive team, she was responsible for statewide public engagement strategy, overseeing the Department’s award-winning magazines, nature centers, educational programs, and all marketing and communications initiatives. Her leadership helped shape the agency’s statewide identity and deepen its connection with Missourians. In 2013, she was honored as Missouri’s Conservation Communicator of the Year for her innovative and impactful work.

Straub holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and history from the University of Missouri and a master’s degree in public communication and technology from Colorado State University. She believes great storytelling is built on collaboration, clarity, and connection—and she’s dedicated her career to building communications that do just that.