Jessica Howell has joined the staff of Parkview Huntington Hospital as communications specialist.

Howell, a native of Jay County, holds a bachelor's degree in telecommunications and political science from Indiana University, Bloomington. She has lived in Huntington for the past two years and has served as economic development associate for the Huntington County Economic Development Corporation.

At PHH, Howell will write for and edit hospital publications. She will also be responsible for media and community relations. She began her role on Jan. 21.