Rich Cohrs
Assistant Dean of Administration and Strategic Initiatives
Rich Cohrs joined The Graduate School (TGS) in March 2018 as the director of communications and engagement. He became the senior director of administration and engagement in October 2022 and then the assistant dean of administration and strategic initiatives in February 2025.
As the assistant dean of administration and strategic initiatives, Rich oversees processes and projects to implement the overall strategy of TGS. In partnership with the dean, he helps craft the strategic vision of TGS, identifies strategic priorities, and represents TGS in cross-functional initiatives.
As a member of the dean’s senior leadership team, Rich is responsible for the communication, engagement, and administrative aspects of the school. This includes executive and internal communications, event management, and administrative best practices. In partnership with the associate dean of finance and business operations, he serves as a Human Resources liaison for TGS staff members and is responsible for the overall employee experience, including annual performance evaluations and staff development.
Prior to Northwestern, Rich held a variety of communication leadership roles at Gap, Inc. and Crate and Barrel. He has an extensive background in advising and consulting with C-suite executives and senior leaders to craft and communicate timely and inspiring messaging, as well as creating and executing communication strategies for complex organizations.
Rich holds BA degrees in English and communication from University of Michigan and an MS degree in communication from Northwestern University.