Hi Rebecca,
Since the death of our students here at the University of Central Arkansas, the
newspapers were very interested in our CORE data.
My advice:
1. Anytime a reporter or lawyer calls you and asks if they can "ask you a few
questions" get a name and number and ask if you can call them back. This will
give you time to talk with your supervisor, get your head together, and be in a
better position to give thoughtful answers.
2. When discussing CORE data, request that the reporter state the use levels
in context with national data. Specifically request that they do not
sensationalize one small aspect of the data. A letter stating this would be
better.
3. Buy ad space and present the data exactly how you wish it to appear. Don't
rely on reporters (especially student reporters) to translate your data in a
positive light.
4. Hold your breath and hope that the reporter's "brain filter" doesn't
destroy all of your hard work. Case in point...I spent about $500 producing
table tents, posters, flyers, ect. with a MOST DON'T binge drink message. When
the reporter wrote the front page article, he left out the word DON'T. After a
long "AAAARRRRRGGGHH", I asked for a retraction....it appeared on the back
page.
Good Luck
Terry
PS. Thing are getting back to normal around here. We have formed a Greek Task
Force to address risk management issues. I have also applied for a $40,000
grant to form a campus/community task force; develop a risk management report
card system; conduct a social marketing campaign; and a curriculum infusion
project. Wish us luck!
Rebecca wrote:
> Hello all!
>
> Has anyone prepared a press release or spoken with their local newspapers
> regarding the results of a Core Survey conducted on their campus? Last
> semester we conducted the Core Survey and the plan now is to release the
> results to the local community. This is to be one of the first steps in
> our efforts to conduct a social marketing campaign. I am looking for words
> of wisdom (warning?) or advice from anyone who has been down this road
> before. Thanks for your help!
>
> Rebecca Kuhn
> Rebecca M. Kuhn, M.S., N.C.C.
> Penn State University
> Hazleton Campus
> Counselor, Health and Counseling Services
> Hazleton Pa. 18201
>
> PH 570-450-3027
> FAX 570-450-3030
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