Maintaining excellent relationships with local and state communities is vital to Rose-Hulman. The Office of Communications and Marketing works with the campus community to involve Terre Haute civic leaders and citizens in general with the college. This occurs through a variety of activities that include involvement on the Wabash Valley Board of Associates, a group of non-Rose-Hulman alumni who are opinion leaders in the community and serve as ambassadors for the college.
 
Rose-Hulman promotes attendance by local citizens at campus special events ranging from athletic contests to performances of the Rose-Hulman Drama Club. Other special events include Rose-Hulman's annual luncheon and program for members of area service clubs, several activities encourage young students to become interested in engineering and science such as the Explore Engineering program, and various academic competitions.

The Office of Communications and Marketing staff works with other campus departments and offices to assist them in communicating with key community groups ranging from prospective employers, potential donors, and future students. Community relations efforts also include publicizing the volunteer work of faculty, staff, students and alumni.