NEW YORK—Iraq war veteran and author Shannon Meehan is joining Veterans Across America as director of public affairs, responsible for communications operations and media relations. Meehan is author of the memoir, Beyond Duty: Life on the Frontlines in Iraq. He began his military career as an officer and platoon leader in the First Calvary Division, serving 15 months in Iraq's Diyala Province. He was injured in an IED strike, suffering traumatic brain and physical injuries and spent two years completing physical and cognitive rehabilitation, where he also served as the unit's public relations officer.

NORFOLK, NE—Supertel Hospitality, a real estate investment trust that owns 103 hotels in 23 states, has appointed Krista Arkfeld to the newly created position of director of corporate communications. Arkfeld is responsible for managing the company's internal and external communications and media relations functions. She joins the company from Royco Hotels, the former primary operator of Supertel's hotel portfolio, where she served as marketing manager.

TROY, MI—Automotive supplier Meritor has appointed Christy Daehnert director, investor relations, responsible for communicating Meritor's financial information and strategic vision to the company's shareholders and other constituents. Daehnert will report directly to Mary Lehmann, senior vice president, treasury, corporate development, communications and investor relations. Previously Daehnert was director, finance, aftermarket & trailers for Meritor. Prior to joining the company, she held positions of increasing responsibility in DaimlerChrysler's finance department, following seven years with Coopers & Lybrand.

SMITHFIELD, VA—Smithfield Foods has promoted Keira Lombardo to vice president of investor relations and corporate communications. Lombardo most recently served as director of investor relations and corporate communications for the company. Lombardo joined Smithfield Foods in 2002 and has worked in several capacities for the company in corporate finance, investor relations and corporate communications.

PHILADELPHIA—The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia has named Peter Grollman vice president, government affairs, community relations and advocacy. In his new position, he will develop and implement an annual legislative agenda for the CHOP community, serve as a liaison with public officials and monitor governmental matters impacting CHOP operations in PA and NJ. Grollman also directs the CHOP's community relations activities, aiding in the creation and maintenance of partnerships supporting public health goals. He was originally hired as director, government affairs, community relations and advocacy in 2007.