Marissa Bodnar
SHE | HER | HERS
Director of Strategic Communications
Faculty, staff, and current students: Are you looking for help with our external website, graphic design, email marketing, social media, photography, or public relations?
Marissa joined the University of Southern Maine (USM) as Director of Strategic Communications in September 2025, leading the university’s media relations and communications strategy.
Prior to USM, Marissa spent 15 years as a broadcast journalist, most recently anchoring evening newscasts at CBS13/FOX23 in Portland, where she also served as the chief investigative reporter. Her work earned a Boston/New England Emmy Award, a national Edward R. Murrow Award, 13 regional Edward R. Murrow Awards, and recognition as a finalist for a national Investigative Reporters and Editors (IRE) Award.
She now works with students, faculty, staff, and university leaders to tell the stories that showcase USM’s impact across Maine and beyond.
Marissa received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Northeastern University, where she also played Division I soccer.
Outside of work, she enjoys hitting the trails with her rescue dog, Atlas, playing tennis, and exploring Portland’s restaurant scene.