Cathy Watson-Bloch of Roanoke, Va., has been named communications manager for the College of Architecture and Urban Studies at Virginia Tech.

In her new position Watson-Bloch will develop and implement a comprehensive communications plan that reflects the strategic plan of the College of Architecture and Urban Studies (with programs in Blacksburg, Northern Virginia and Europe). She is also responsible for media relations, publications, web development, event planning and public affairs.

Watson-Bloch brings more than 15 years of public and media relations experience to the position. Prior to coming to Virginia, Watson-Bloch was at Capitol Records in Los Angeles, where she served as director of creative administration, and national director publicity and media relations. In addition to serving at two Los Angeles based public relations firms, she was employed by media and entertainment companies that include Warner Bros. Records, Island Records and Polygram. A native of Roanoke, Va., Watson-Bloch received a bachelor's degree from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro.

Celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2004, the College of Architecture and Urban Studies is one of the largest of its type in the nation. CAUS is composed of two schools and the departments of landscape architecture, building construction, and art and art history. The School of Architecture + Design includes programs in architecture, industrial design and interior design. The School of Public and International Affairs includes programs in urban affairs and planning, public administration and policy, and government and international affairs.

Share this story