Wills Citty Raleigh North Carolina Death and Obituary – The unexpected passing of Wills Citty, Director of Communications for the College of Education and the College of Health and Human Services at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNC Charlotte), has left the university and the broader community in mourning. Wills Citty, widely regarded as not only a dedicated communications professional but also a mentor, friend, and advocate, was a key figure in shaping the public perception of the university’s pivotal programs in education and health care.
Throughout his distinguished career, Wills demonstrated an unwavering commitment to promoting the values and accomplishments of the two colleges he served. His primary role involved leading the development and implementation of public relations, marketing, and communications strategies. Under his guidance, the visibility of both colleges was significantly enhanced, ensuring that the important work being done in education and health was effectively communicated to diverse audiences.
Wills was particularly known for his innovative approach to communications. His expertise spanned across multiple platforms, from digital content management to media relations. Whether publishing content on websites, curating social media campaigns, or overseeing promotional efforts for university events, Wills utilized every tool available to increase engagement with the university’s stakeholders. His focus on using digital tools to promote both the College of Education and the College of Health and Human Services helped maintain the university’s reputation at the forefront of public attention.
Prior to his tenure at UNC Charlotte, Wills had a multifaceted career that blended communications and law. He graduated from the University of Florida with a degree in broadcast journalism before earning a law degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His legal education, with a focus on media law and the First Amendment, complemented his career in communications, equipping him with a deep understanding of the importance of protecting journalistic freedoms. Wills’ work in communications was grounded in a strong ethical framework, and he was a fierce advocate for the preservation of constitutional rights, particularly those related to the freedom of the press.
Before joining UNC Charlotte, Wills gained invaluable experience in the media industry. He worked in television and radio news, where he honed his skills as both an anchor and producer. Notably, he anchored and produced a local edition of NPR’s All Things Considered at WUFT-TV in Gainesville. He also contributed to the National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) in the realm of digital communications, writing about the organization’s efforts to safeguard media rights.
Wills’ decision to transition into university communications allowed him to blend his passion for storytelling with his desire to contribute to the growth and success of UNC Charlotte. His colleagues at the university admired his professionalism, creativity, and collaborative spirit. Wills was not only instrumental in elevating the profiles of the colleges he served but also in supporting the students, faculty, and staff within those institutions.
Wills’ legacy extends far beyond his professional achievements. He was a mentor and friend to many, offering guidance, encouragement, and support to those who worked with him. His warm personality and commitment to fostering relationships with his colleagues and students were hallmarks of his character. His dedication to communication and advocacy made a lasting impact on all those who had the privilege of working alongside him.
In his passing, UNC Charlotte has lost a dedicated leader and communications professional. Wills Citty’s contributions to the university will continue to inspire future generations of communicators. His life and work will be celebrated through a memorial service, where the university community will gather to honor his memory and the legacy he leaves behind. His spirit and dedication will remain a guiding force within the university’s communications efforts, ensuring that his impact is felt for years to come.
Wills Citty is survived by his family, friends, and colleagues, all of whom will remember him for his generosity, drive, and passion for his work. May his memory serve as a blessing to all who had the privilege of knowing him.