The American Kennel Club announced today that effective immediately, Noreen E. Baxter will oversee the following departments in addition to her current duties: Communications, Internet Services, Marketing and Publications. Her title of Vice President of Public Education and Canine Legislation will change to Vice President of Communications.

“By closely linking the efforts of these areas, we are creating a unified, consistent and more powerful voice with which to best promote AKC registration and events, the advancement of purebred dogs, responsible dog ownership and numerous programs and services,” said Dennis B. Sprung, AKC's Chief Operating Officer.

Baxter joined the AKC in 1989 as a Judges Education Coordinator and was promoted to Manager of Public Affairs with a focus on canine legislation that same year. In 1993, she became the Manager of Public Education and, soon after introducing the Best Friends children's education program, was appointed Director of Communications. In 1995 Baxter was named Vice President of the Public Education and Canine Legislation Division.

Baxter is currently located in AKC's Raleigh, NC office; however she is expected to relocate to New York City in early 2004. Public Education and Canine Legislation staff will remain in Raleigh.