Kleinhelter Returns to USI as Senior Media Relations Specialist
Carson Kleinhelter, a 2025 graduate of the University of Southern Indiana, has returned as Senior Media Relations Specialist in University Strategic Communication. In this position, Kleinhelter will help advance USI’s visibility and reputation by growing the University’s social media presence, building relationships with local and regional media, identifying news and storytelling opportunities, and highlighting the people, programs and accomplishments that demonstrate USI’s impact.
Prior to his new role at USI, Kleinhelter served as a Media Executive and Photojournalist at 14 News WFIE where he developed and executed broadcast and digital focused advertising campaigns for local and regional brands and businesses in the Evansville area. In addition, he produced news and sports content through photography and videography for 14 News WFIE audiences.
Kleinhelter earned a bachelor’s degree in radio and television with an emphasis in communications. During his time at USI, he was a member of the Men’s Cross Country and Track & Field teams and served on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) representing cross country and track & field during USI’s transition from Division II to Division I.
While at USI, Kleinhelter gained hands-on experience in sports broadcasting and digital media, producing content for USI Athletics and contributing to the University’s coverage of numerous championship athletic events. Kleinhelter also developed a freelance photography business capturing portraits, sports and weddings through his work.
“I am incredibly excited for the opportunity to return and give back to a university that has provided me with so much,” Kleinhelter said. “I’m looking forward to applying my experience in media and storytelling to this position, building relationships and sharing the stories that make this University such a special place.”
University Strategic Communication is a department within the University Marketing and Communication unit at USI. University Strategic Communication leads USI’s institutional communications efforts, advancing the University’s reputation and strengthening engagement with key audiences. The team oversees media relations, executive and internal communications, social media, storytelling, multimedia, web content and other strategic communications that support USI’s mission and priorities.