Blyth Morrell named vice president of marketing at RTI International

Former Duke University brand leader brings 20+ years of experience in strategic marketing and digital innovation

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. — RTI International, an independent scientific research institute, announced today that Blyth Morrell will join the organization as vice president of marketing, effective Monday, Nov. 3. In this newly created role, Morrell will lead efforts to strengthen RTI’s brand and expand its reach across public and commercial sectors. She will oversee digital marketing strategy, content development and customer engagement campaigns, leveraging technology to connect audiences with RTI’s mission and impact.

Morrell brings more than two decades of experience in brand strategy, integrated campaigns and digital transformation, most recently serving as assistant vice president for brand and marketing at Duke University. At Duke, Morrell led enterprise-wide brand and marketing efforts that elevated the university’s national and global reputation. Her work included creative storytelling, omnichannel campaign execution, and the development of performance frameworks to measure marketing impact.

"Blyth’s leadership in data-driven marketing and digital innovation aligns perfectly with RTI’s strategic direction,” said Mike Kaelin, executive vice president and chief operating officer. “I’m thrilled to welcome her to the institute as we enter a new chapter positioning RTI for continued growth."

Morrell’s career at Duke spanned multiple roles, including assistant vice president for digital strategy and senior director of digital communications. She led cross-functional teams integrating marketing, technology and organizational strategy, and oversaw award-winning campaigns.

“I’m delighted to be joining RTI at such an exciting moment for growth. RTI’s powerful blend of scientific excellence and purpose-driven impact truly inspires me, and I look forward to collaborating across the organization to help shape and amplify this next chapter,” said Morrell.

Morrell holds a bachelor’s degree in English with a communications concentration and a minor in computer information systems from Lees-McRae College and has completed executive leadership trainings at Duke University.