Media Relations Services for Faculty, Staff and Students

Media relations is a part of the college's Public Relations Office within the Office of Advancement. Media relations staff publicize Houghton events, as well as significant accomplishments of students, faculty and staff, to both internal and external audiences.

The media relations coordinator researches and write news releases and public service announcements (PSAs), often taking a proactive role in matching breaking news from college to the appropriate media outlets. The media relations coordinator also serves as the initial contact for reporters, producers and other media representatives seeking information about Houghton or wishing to interview faculty/staff experts.

What we offer

News announcements -- Each year we issue hundreds of news releases and news tips, covering subjects such as campus announcements, faculty research, student accomplishments, national honors, major upcoming events, and publication of books. We also use letters, meetings and phone calls to interest reporters, writers and editors around the country in feature stories on campus. 

• Use the accomplishments form to notify the Public Relations Office of honors, awards, and other types of recognition achieved by Houghton faculty, staff, and students. 
• Fill out the event submission form to publicize an upcoming event.

News conferences and media availabilities -- News conferences represent one way to handle a major announcement of interest to several reporters. In some instances, a "news availability" is desirable following our release of a story on a research project or major report; we notify the media that you will be available in your office or lab between certain hours and can be contacted then.

Responses to reporters -- Our staff fields a number of media-related calls and electronic queries each year, providing assistance on stories, help in arranging interviews, names of experts, etc. Some reporters are looking for resources on a particular topic, so we have made available an online Faculty Resource Guide. You can add or update your information by completing the Faculty Resource Guide Registration Form.

Media training -- Want to know what to do when a reporter calls? Look here.

Photography -- Our campus photographer is also available to cover newsworthy campus events or may need to come to your office to get your photo to go with an article.

For more information contact:
Sarah Lingenfelter
Media Relations Coordinator
Ext. 5590
sarah.lingenfelter@houghton.edu