SPRINGFIELD, Mo., June 18, 2025 – Drury University is pleased to announce the appointment of Kayla Warner ’21 MA ‘23 as the new Director of Alumni and Engagement, Warner, a two-time Drury alumna, brings a background in event management and strategic communications to the role.
As Director of Alumni and Engagement, Warner will lead the university’s efforts to strengthen alumni relations and build a culture of philanthropy among Drury’s alumni, current students, and parents. She will manage a wide array of programs designed to increase alumni involvement, grow annual giving, and foster lifelong connections with the university.
“Kayla’s commitment to building meaningful relationships with alumni and creating engaging experiences makes her a perfect fit to lead this work,” said Caron Settle Parnell ‘99, Alumni Council President. “As a proud Drury graduate, she understands the value of a Drury education and the power of our alumni network. Her passion and energy will inspire alumni to reconnect, give back, and stay engaged.”
Warner earned both her Master of Arts in Integrated Marketing and Communications (2023) and her Bachelor of Arts in Strategic Communication and Graphic & Digital Design (2021) from Drury University, graduating with honors.
Her professional background includes service as Communication and Special Events Coordinator at the Child Advocacy Center, where she led cross-functional teams and oversaw large-scale community events. She also served as a Graduate Assistant in Drury’s Office of Admissions and has held multiple roles in event planning, marketing, and volunteer leadership across Springfield.
“I am deeply honored to return to Drury in this capacity,” said Warner. “Drury has given me so much—as a student, a leader, and a professional—and I’m excited to now give back by building relationships with our incredible alumni. Together, we’ll celebrate Drury’s legacy and shape its future.”
In her new role, Warner will also serve as liaison to the Drury University Alumni Council and will lead initiatives related to alumni recognition, Homecoming, student engagement, volunteer leadership, and annual giving – driving engagement through innovative programming.
For more information about alumni engagement opportunities at Drury, visit www.drury.edu/alumni.
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Media Contact: Cris Belvin, Director of University Communications & Media Relations | (417) 873-7392 | gbelvin@drury.edu