Successful campus public relations requires: (1) segmenting the mass audience into categories according to demographics, interest, lifestyles, and other factors; (2) analyzing how members of each segment respond to various messages and media; and (3) designing a campaign tailored to specific segments of the general audience. (MSE)

Experience at Washington University (Missouri) illustrates the importance of careful media relations planning, including pinpointing what the institution wants to accomplish, establishing ground rules, and working with the institution's communications team to draw up a media relations plan. Planning steps are outlined. (MSE)

Ways to create and implement a master marketing plan for college campuses are described. The best marketing plans describe both objectives and methods for all appropriate areas within the institution. (MLW)

Examines how college presidents spend their time and the stress associated with their duties. (Author)

Large, flashy college fund drives may be falling out of favor with alumni and friends of the institution. Advancement professionals recount their experiences and suggest ways to adapt campaigns to new needs and environments. Inherent problems with large campaigns are enumerated, and the importance of clear communication to audiences on and off…

Planning can help college public relations officials make the most of their time and energy. One approach includes reviewing institutional mission and strategic plan; setting department goals; identifying and targeting audiences; establishing interdepartmental links; and setting out action, crisis, budget, and evaluation plans in writing. (MSE)

A study of the promotional activities used in marketing departments in business schools found that departments do better by using specific promotional devices, such as written goals, a promotion committee, and support of a public relations professional. A six-step strategic departmental promotional plan is outlined, based on the findings.…

Ingredients for a successful alumni association membership campaign are outlined, including clear objectives for the campaign; support of staff, board, and administration; careful timing; focus on college events; strategically targeted mailing audience; appropriate type of mailing; unique message; attention-getting format; follow-up; and use of…

Ways in which college alumni officers are using emerging technology to enhance regional programming and distance communication are described, including World Wide Web sites, electronic mail, and satellite and video technologies. Suggestions are made for getting started: defining goals, doing research, offering inexpensive connections, and…

To recruit from the multicultural and lucrative international student market, colleges and universities are advised to develop a strong marketing plan; develop publications tailored to this population; and make a personal visit to targeted countries. (MSE)

A guide to planning college and university anniversary celebrations that attract the attention of both friends and strangers recommends creating substantive programs related to current public interest; faculty involvement; broad-based and varied programing; media participation; attention to both past and future; and adequate budget. (MSE)

Key elements of public relations that may apply to the university research environment and lead to greater financial support for research activities are outlined, and examples from the private sector are used to explore the relationships between public relations, organizational growth, and financial stability. Practical suggestions are offered for…

Alumni programs can involve more minority group members by focusing on constructive change for the benefit of future alumni. Administrators should challenge minority alumni to participate, have strategies to deal with concerns and complaints, determine campus commitment to diversity, and send appropriate messages to alumni. (MSE)

Advice on international public relations for colleges and universities includes focusing efforts on one country or region at a time; researching the market and media outlets; involving faculty and administrators; using the local language; careful budgeting; providing photographs and copy; focusing story ideas; considering politics; and considering…

Five tactics used by the University of Massachusetts to make alumni operations effective with minimal cost include assuring the campus administration's commitment to alumni club programming, training chapter volunteers on campus and through regional visits, controlling mailing costs, planning events in a cost-effective manner, and deciding whether…