One of the most successful ways to educate the general public about Portland State University is through print, broadcast, and online media. University Communications staff maintains ongoing communications with reporters and editors throughout the region using press releases and advisories about events, research projects, policy changes, and other items of interest.
Contact University Communications media relations staff:
Christina Williams, cdw2@pdx.edu, 503-725-8789
Katy Swordfisk, ksword2@pdx.edu, 503-725-8575
Talking to the Media
Faculty and staff may be contacted by members of the media directly to comment on a topic, situation, or policy at the University. It's a good idea to contact University Communications prior to responding to reporters. University Communications staff may also contact you to respond to a media call. Although it is not feasible to meet every media request, know that lending expertise can help frame issues for the general public, while also building important relationships with reporters. This may prove useful in the future (such as when it comes time to highlight a new grant or research project).
University Communications staff can provide tips on working with the media. Note that reporters typically work on tight deadlines (often a day or less).
Press Releases and Media Advisories
If you are planning an event, or have a newsworthy announcement, a press release or media advisory to local or national media can be an effective way to get the word out.
To announce an upcoming event, such as a lecture or performance, the deadlines for newspapers are typically four weeks in advance of the event. Contact University Communications staff to discuss whether a press release or media advisory is the best way to meet your promotional needs. See examples of recent University news releases and media advisories.
Faculty Experts
Media resources include our Faculty Experts service, a searchable online database that allows members of the media to search for faculty members with particular expertise in a field or subject. Contact University Communications for updates.