Publicity Guidelines

Publicity Format

It is important that College press releases have a standard format and be checked carefully before release. Chances of getting media placements are better when releases use styles and conventions familiar to journalists.

Publicity for Upcoming Events

It's never too early to notify Communications, but the 15th of the month is a key date for publicity. Many media outlets rely on a monthly calendar we distribute. If we know by the 15th of the month about your speaker, performance or other College activity open to the public, it will be included in our calendar and will get maximum exposure. Reproducing photographs, checking facts and getting copy proofread take time, so the earlier we get information, the better. If possible, send us a master list of events for the semester or the whole year, but only if times, dates and places are firm.

Media Outlets

We have standard lists of newspapers and television and radio outlets. If your department knows of any other journalists or publications who might be interested, please tell us so we can add them to our list.

Hometown Releases

Notices of students who distinguish themselves academically or in some other area can be sent to hometown newspapers. As time permits, the Office of Communications can generate press releases on individual student awards and accomplishments. We are already set up to publicize the Dean's List, Phi Beta Kappa inductees, Dana, Bixler and Bunche scholars and graduating seniors among other distinctions.

Media Sources

Faculty members who have expertise in any field that has bearing on current events and who are interested in serving as a resource for the news media are encouraged to contact communications so that we may try to set up interviews. We also can help submit op-ed articles for publication. Again, lead time is important. Contact Ruth Jacobs.