Providence Journal political columnist Edward Fitzpatrick will become the new Director of Media and Public Relations for Roger Williams University effective Oct. 5, the school announced today.

Fitzpatrick joins the University after 28 years as a reporter, editor and columnist, including 16 years at The Providence Journal and eight years as its political columnist. He grew up in Greenville, R.I., graduated from Mount St. Charles Academy and from Syracuse University with a degree in journalism and political science. He previously worked at the Hartford Courant, the Albany Times Union and The Saratogian.

“I’ve been watching a compelling story unfold at Roger Williams University, and I am looking forward to being part of this ambitious effort,” Fitzpatrick said. “Far from the ivory tower, the University is meeting Rhode Islanders where they live – in places such as Central Falls and Pawtucket. As a native Rhode Islander, I find that approach inspiring. As a journalist who has chronicled the state’s challenges over the years, I find that approach most welcome.”

“We recognized that we needed a strong and unimpeachable voice to carry the message that RWU is building the university the world needs now, through a set of programs and initiatives quite unlike what people have historically expected from universities,” Roger Williams President Donald J. Farish said. “I can think of no better or more respected person to deliver that message than Ed Fitzpatrick.”