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Helios Education Foundation Announces First Chief Communications Officer

(Tampa, FL) – Helios Education Foundation announced today Ian Smith as the organization’s first senior vice president and chief communications officer.  Smith brings more than 13 years of public relations, marketing, television and corporate communications experience to the newly burgeoning education Foundation.  In his role as chief communications officer, Smith will be the senior executive representing Helios in Florida.  He will direct the organization’s strategic marketing and communications decisions, manage the day-to-day operations of the Tampa office and focus on building relationships across the statewide community.

“Helios Education Foundation is extremely fortunate to have a marketing professional of Ian’s caliber to lead our brand and marketing strategy,” commented Paul J. Luna, president.  “Ian’s understanding of the Florida market and proven communications leadership makes him an incredible asset to the Foundation and the broader community.”

Prior to joining Helios, Smith was the communications director for the Florida Housing Finance Corporation where he managed the Corporation’s statewide marketing strategy including branding, market research, online strategies and public relations.  He has also served as director of public affairs for the Florida Home Builders Association and deputy director of communications for the Florida Department of Community Affairs.  An accredited public relations professional, Smith holds a Master of Arts degree in English from Florida State University and a Bachelor of Arts degree in English and Journalism from Florida A&M University.

“I am excited to take a leadership role in helping the Helios Education Foundation impact the education-related issues affecting Florida and Arizona,” said Smith.  “I support Helios’ mission and believe we can significantly improve the lives of individuals and communities through our work in education.”

About Helios Education Foundation

Helios Education Foundation is a nonprofit organization serving Arizona and Florida with an endowment exceeding $600 million.  The Foundation is dedicated to enriching the lives of individuals by creating opportunities for success in postsecondary education.  Since its inception in 2004, Helios has invested more than $25 million into education-related programs and initiatives.  For more information about the Helios Education Foundation, visit www.helios.org.