Media and Events

Generating an audience is a critical part of event planning, and on-campus publicity is by far the most important component. Students, faculty, and staff make up more than 95 percent of almost any audience for Colby events. Here are some ways to reach them and the broader community.

Events Calendar

The room-scheduling software managed by the Events Office generates a comprehensive events calendar. Complete the online event request form to reserve a room and ensure a listing in the calendar. Including an informative, well-written description will help drive people to your event. The events calendar is surfaced throughout Colby’s website. All events should be publicized here as well as Colby Now. 

General Announcements

To post an announcement, visit the Colby Now and click on the “Submit” link.

Personal Contact

Reaching out to individuals and groups that have an interest in the topic may be one of the best ways to attract an audience. Having professors encourage (or require) students to attend is effective, students say.

Posters and Table Tents

The student handbook’s posting policy explains restrictions (e.g., no posters on glass surfaces, no duct tape, tacks only on bulletin boards). Table tents must be approved by the dining hall manager before they can be placed in dining halls or the Spa.

Social Media

If the event is sponsored by a group or department that has a social media presence, posting information there can help spread the word.

WMHB Radio and the Colby Echo

E-mail Colby’s radio station at [email protected] to request that your event is included in an on-air reading of campus events. Pitch your event to the editors of Colby’s student newspaper at [email protected].

News Outlets

Event sponsors interested in additional external publicity may wish to contact local media outlets. To consult with the Office of Communications about publicity options, contact us at extension 4346 or [email protected].

Colby notifies hometown newspapers of students’ achievements. Hometown press releases may be issued for students enrolling at Colby, making the dean’s list, receiving a scholarship or fellowship, studying abroad, graduating, et cetera.

Students may opt out of having hometown releases issued. To do so, please e-mail [email protected].

Colby also uses Merit to showcase student achievements. A Merit page is automatically generated for each student for whom a hometown press release is submitted. Students may claim their page and add profile information, or they can opt out on Merit’s website or by e-mailing [email protected].

For more info, visit this page on Colby News.