Ross named interim director of HSC News and Communications

Melanie Fridl Ross, M.S.L., E.L.S., was appointed interim director of Health Science Center News and Communications on Sept. 15. Ross replaces previous director, Tom Fortner, who accepted the position of chief public affairs and communications officer with the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson.
Melanie Fridl Ross, M.S.J., E.L.S., was appointed interim director of Health Science Center News and Communications, effective since Sept. 15. Photo by Sarah Kiewel.

Melanie Fridl Ross, M.S.J., E.L.S., was appointed interim director of Health Science Center News and Communications.

Ross said she is excited about the opportunities her new position offers and hopes to bring new levels of communication to the six  colleges that make up the HSC.

“My goal in the year ahead is to propel our communications efforts to the next level by introducing fresh ideas and capitalizing on the newest developments in online media,” Ross said.

Since joining UF in 1992, Ross has helped manage the Health Science Center’s external news operation and assisted with the development and implementation of public relations strategic planning initiatives and issues management efforts.

Additionally, she is senior producer and managing editor of Health in a Heartbeat, a consumer health series that airs on public radio affiliates in 18 states and Washington, D.C. She also is an adjunct faculty member at UF’s College of Journalism and Communications, where she teaches news reporting.

“Our office is committed to continuing the vital work of putting the UF Health Science Center on the national map by letting our peers and the public know about all the wonderful achievements of our faculty, students and staff,” Ross said. “We’re here to lend a voice to the scientist toiling in the lab and the doctor making a difference in the exam room, not to mention the countless others who work behind the scenes to achieve the research, patient care and educational advances we are noted for across the six health-related colleges comprising the HSC.”