The Office of Marketing Communications serves as the university’s official point of contact for all media relations activities and is responsible for coordinating communication with news media on behalf of the university. Faculty and staff should contact the Office of Marketing Communications as the first step when planning activities where media coverage is desired.
All news releases, media advisories, media pitches, interview requests, and other communications intended for distribution to media outlets must be reviewed and approved by the Office of Marketing Communications prior to release. While faculty and staff may assist in drafting content, the Office of Marketing Communications is responsible for the official dissemination of information to the media unless other arrangements have been approved.
If faculty or staff receive a media inquiry, interview request, or question from a reporter, the request should be referred to the Office of Marketing Communications, so coverage and messaging can be coordinated appropriately. The President, Director of Marketing Communications, Associate Director of Community Relations & Public Affairs or their designee may authorize a faculty or staff member to serve as a spokesperson on a particular topic.
Media representatives seeking to film, photograph, or conduct interviews on campus property should coordinate arrangements through the Office of Marketing Communications. Requests for interviews will only proceed with the consent of the individual being interviewed. Although media coverage cannot be guaranteed, the university strives to maintain positive and cooperative relationships with local, regional, and national media outlets.
Faculty members are welcome to participate in media interviews and share their expertise; however, they should do so in their personal capacity as subject-matter experts and not on behalf of the university. Faculty and staff are asked to notify the Office of Marketing Communications when they receive media requests, so the university can remain informed and provide support if needed.
Faculty and staff should avoid discussing matters involving: