185 Jack Shock Dr. Jack Shock serves as interim associate vice president in the UCM office for the 2024-25 school year. After teaching in the Communication Department for 32 years, Dr. Jack Shock began serving as the interim associate vice president for University Communications and Marketing (UCM) in fall 2024. As an educator and leader, Shock guided students and staff purpose, all while remaining committed to cultivating relationships. After shifting from his role of professor into his position as associate vice president, Shock led previous students through the workforce in the UCM office. “As a student, I admired Dr. Shock, but working with him professionally has deepened my respect even more,” junior Wesley Lamberson said. “He genuinely cares for us and ensures we are taken care of so we can feel and work our best.” Shock’s work experiences in the White House and in New York City allowed him to bring rich experience to the UCM office. He witnessed the transformation of traditional journalism into digital platforms, strengthening his adaptability and ability to capture all aspects of a story. Being in the New York City workforce in the midst of national crises, including the attacks of September 11th, led him to value the importance of showcasing the lives of people who make up the community. “We’re the storytellers,” Shock said. “In this office we contribute to everything from time capsules to magazines to video archives. We are charged with telling a story, and we safeguard the University’s history.” As the marketing world continued to evolve with the latest programs and tools, Shock welcomed the opportunity to discover what the future had to offer. His innovative approach ensured the University’s place at the forefront of communication strategies. The integration of the two fields wove together media and messages to enhance Harding’s support and involvement. “I’m most excited about learning and using new and emerging technologies to help us stay connected to young people,” Shock said. Believing relationships to be the key factor in communication, Shock placed people at the heart of his mission. He strove to create a supportive and welcoming work atmosphere while simplifying communication to make it accessible for everyone. “Dr. Shock has taught me how to enjoy working,” senior Tucker Bartch said. “He always promotes hard work but never at the expense of a family environment and good memories.” Students and faculty across campus observed how Shock’s influential career promptly shaped the University’s professional development and spiritual purpose, equipping campus life to flourish when guided by his compassion and commitment to excellence. Written by Cailynn Clayton Jack of All Trades
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