The mission of the Division of University Relations is to portray East Tennessee State University favorably yet honestly by communicating information about our people, programs, policies, and opportunities to all our publics.  These publics include:
 

•   Prospective and current students
•   Parents
•   Alumni
•   Donors
•   Faculty and staff
•   Retired employees of the university
•   The Tennessee Board of Regents
•   The Tennessee Higher Education Commission
•   Members of the Tennessee General Assembly
•   The Executive Branch of state government
•   Our representatives in Congress
•   Local government officials
•   The business-industry-service communities
•   The news media
•   The general public
•   Accrediting bodies, such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
•   Funding agencies, such as the National Institutes of Health and the National Science Foundation
•   Neighbors
•   Regional public school systems and private schools
•   Other regional community colleges and four-year schools

Our purpose in communicating with these groups is as varied as the list itself.  The role of the University Relations office in this regional university is quite important as we assist the campus community in creating as wide an awareness as possible of the university's many offerings.

Through internal and external media, publications, special events, electronic communication, and one-on-one contact, the office attempts to depict the university favorably yet honestly.  Credibility is the most important aspect of any public relations effort.

In all its communications, the office strives for accuracy and believability.

The following sections give an overview of the operations of University Relations in dealing with various publics.
 

   I. Media Relations

   II. Governmental Relations

 III. Presidential Distinguished Lecture Series

  IV. Speech-Writing

  V. Speakers Bureau

  VI. Message Boards

 VII. Inclement Weather Schedule Change Announcements

VIII. President's Pride

With this overview in mind, we'll now take you through some specific steps to help you in dealing with our office and the media.