Deisha Barnett, a graduate of the Clark Atlanta University – School of Business, has been named as the senior vice president of marketing and communications at the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce.
Since graduating from CAU, Barnett has spent more than a decade managing corporate communications strategies at Walmart, the world’s largest retailer. Using her experience at Walmart, Barnett’s new role will involve overseeing executive communications and marketing, as well as branding and media relations. Her responsibilities also include assisting the Chamber in creating new jobs and sustaining economic growth.
“I’m excited to continue leveraging the skills I learned as a mass communications student,” she said recently.
Her experience in communications “began at CAU,” commenting on the skills her Clark Atlanta education has provided throughout her career. “My CAU professors, mentors and network of awesome CAU alumni and friends have played critical roles as I’ve navigated career decisions over the years. I will work hard to make them all proud as I begin this new adventure.”
Barnett began her communications career with an internship in CAU’s Office of University Relations during the 1997-98 school year, working under the guidance of the late Toni Mosley. During her long tenure at Walmart, Barnett was responsible for many high profile campaigns. Such work included Black Friday sales, controversies and a $2 billion hunger relief effort.
In her Walmart departure email, Barnett stated: “I’m ready to work hard to help position Atlanta and the surrounding area as a great place to do business and a great place to live.” Her new role with the Chamber will begin officially on Nov. 29th.