Office of Media Relations
The office of Media Relations is the primary link between the University community and the news media. Our goal is to increase public awareness and understanding of Western Kentucky University and its programs, faculty and student accomplishments.
Media Relations employs a variety of means of communicating to the public, including news releases, news conferences and availabilities, press contacts, photographs, the World Wide Web, electronic newsline and the At-Western E-Mail newsletter.
Members of the news media can contact Media Relations with questions. If we don't know the answer, we'll find someone who does. Those on campus with a story to tell can come to us for assistance with getting the word out.
Media Relations Services
News Releases:
One of the primary communication tools is the news release. Releases, many of which are posted on Western Online, are one of the ways we get the word to the news media. They can range from full feature stories to tip sheets to announcements of upcoming events. Media Relations will work with you to gather information, prepare the release and distribute it to the appropriate media. If you have a story idea, call the office or send an E-mail to Bob Skipper.
News Conferences:
For major announcements of interest to several media outlets, we may call a news conference. This puts all parties--the news makers and reporters--together in one place. The Office of University Relations should be involved in any news conference before it is announced.
Photographs:
The University Photographer is available to provide photographic services for university publications, such as departmental brochures. Photo sessions should be scheduled as far in advance as possible.
World Wide Web:
Western Online is one of the newest communication tools available to the Western family. In addition to posting news releases, Western Online provides a wealth of information about the University. The Western homepage and pages with the Office of University Relations are maintained within the Office of Media Relations.
Campus Newsline:
Recorded news stories, including actualities, are available through the Campus Newsline. Scripts are faxed to radio stations as stories are posted and the stories are available via a toll-free telephone number. To receive scripts, please E-mail Bob Skipper.