How do I know if my event/news should have a news release?
Integrated Marketing and Communications is eager to hear your story ideas. We will pitch stories that are most likely to generate media interest. Some examples of stories that are likely to succeed include:

• Stories with national scope or impact. These stories illustrate a national trend in higher education; highlight a unique aspect of the UW Oshkosh faculty, students or staff; or have potential to interest or impact a general and legal audience alike.  
• Stories that are unique/human interest. These stories exemplify the unique or human face of UW Oshkosh faculty, students or staff.
• Compelling stories with news/feature undertones. These stories most often appeal to a general audience and involve the activities of a person. They often have a direct correlation to an issue in the news or a national/local trend. Story ideas can be compelling, whimsical or present an issue that is on the brink of innovation.

Are there guidelines for dealing with the media?
Yes, there are guidelines designed to aid you in your communication with the media. You are strongly encouraged to review these guidelines before embarking on any media relations program.

What should I do if they media contacts me for an interview?
Faculty and staff are encouraged to speak to reporters on matters related to their areas of expertise, such as their research, scholarship, teaching or professional experience. However, faculty and staff are asked to notify Integrated Marketing and Communications as soon as possible following contact from the media. Notifying the Integrated Marketing and Communications office is important if follow-up requests are made with other University faculty or staff to ensure a coordinated University response. Additionally, such notifications allow the University to track media placement.

Reporters should always be referred to Integrated Marketing and Communications if a reporter seeks information on a topic that deals with issues of University-wide significance and/or are of a controversial or sensitive nature. Additionally, faculty and staff should notify Integrated Marketing and Communications immediately about issues they may be aware of that have the potential to generate media inquiries or interest.

How do I inform IMC about media opportunities in my department/unit?
We are always looking for story ideas and communication opportunities. We encourage you to report any possibilities for these.

How do I submit items to UW Oshkosh Today?
You can e-mail your items as text or Word attachments to uwot@uwosh.edu. If you need more information, contact David Williams at williamd@uwosh.edu.

What should I do in an emergency situation?
Issues that should immediately be referred to the associate director of news and public information include: 1) legal issues, 2) personnel issues, 3) questions that involve college integrity, such as ethics or issues that may result in harm to others, or 4) a campus crisis or emergency. Contact IMC at (920) 424-2442 as soon as possible.