Return to News And Events The AJCU Communications Advisory Council (CAC) Each of the 28 Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S. is recognized for academic excellence and values-based education that includes a commitment to leadership, service, and social justice. The AJCU network is also known for working collaboratively on projects to promote the unique and compelling value of Jesuit higher education.
The AJCU Communications Advisory Council (CAC), an executive committee of the AJCU Communications Network, was established in 2004. The purpose of the Council has been to serve as a resource for all 28 members of the AJCU. The group's mission sums up the intent:
To collaborate in meaningful ways on the development of strategies and ideas that further the mission and values of Jesuit higher education through variousmeans of communication, including media relations, public relations, marketing and technology.
Since it's inception, the CAC has undertaken key projects to benefit communications and marketing professionals at each of the Jesuit colleges and universities. The goal for the group is to continue to collaborate on joint initiatives to support the broader network, as well as strengthen each school's own marketing and communications activities through shared counsel, best practices and issue analysis.
The following individuals are members of the CAC for the 2007-08 academic year:
Julie Green Bataille, Special Assistant to the President for Public Affairs, Georgetown University
Melissa Collins Di Leonardo, Director of Communications, AJCU
Tricia Geraghty, VP for Marketing and Communications, Marquette University
Joe Lunardi, Assistant VP for Marketing Communications, Saint Joseph's University
Ellen Ryder, Director of Public Affairs, College of the Holy Cross
Kelly Shannon, VP for University Marketing and Communications, Loyola University Chicago
Kate Spencer, Assistant VP for University Marketing and Communications, Fordham University
Soon Beng Yeap, Ph.D., Assistant VP for Marketing and Communications, Seattle University
Gerry Zaboski, Associate VP for Alumni and Public Relations, University of Scranton
A Valuable Resource
Four initiatives exemplify how the collective work of the CAC can support your own efforts to promote your school, manage issues and communicate key messages.
Accomplishments:
1) White Papers
At Jesuit institutions, there is an ongoing and constant dialogue about academic freedom and Catholic Church positions on issues ranging from campus speakers to financially supported speaker groups to course and program content being taught. Responding to such inquiries requires thorough research, a well-informed understanding of Church positions, and strategic messaging. The CAC took on the task of developing several white papers that summarize key Church positions and list resources on various topics that often generate a host of questions for Jesuit colleges and universities. The papers provide background information to give you context for developing your school's response to inquiries.
2.) Media and Public Relations
The CAC has begun the process of creating an experts guide for use by media and other organizations. It also coordinates national stories of interest by the media and is planning to proactively pitch national stories that highlight the distinct mission and role Jesuit higher education plays in society today. (Melissa to verify, flesh out if this is incorrect.)
3.) Surveys and Best Practices
Surveys are another resource that AJCU members may find helpful. For example, the CAC conducted a survey of AJCU marketing and communications functions for the purpose of sharing organizational structures, scope and roles that the marketing and communications functions play at the various schools. The results supported schools that were in the process of reviewing or reorganizing their communication and marketing functions and provided benchmark information on resources, marketing funding and organizational structure.
4.) Networking and Fellowship
In addition to gathering data and best practices through the CAC, another benefit is the network and fellowship opportunities provided by the council. AJCU members can use the council to gather information, vet project plans, locate vendor sources, and share success stories and challenges. The collective experience both in and external to higher education is an invaluable resource.
New staff orientation, listserves and website information, mentor programs, coordinated national story pitches, and hot topics conference calls are possible new initiatives for the group to take on.
Membership Questions and an Invitation
Membership questions and an invitation (some type of graphic that will work here)
Who is on the CAC?
The CAC is comprised of 10-12 key leaders in the area of communications, public relations/public affairs, and/or marketing at AJCU institutions. Serving as a member of the CAC reflects our individual school's commitment to the AJCU network.
How long are the terms?
Members serve a two-year commitment and have the option to renew their term for an additional two years, not to exceed four consecutive years.
How are members nominated?
New members are nominated by the AJCU director of communications, who serves as ex officio and liaison between the CAC and the AJCU President, or a current member of the CAC.
What is the time commitment?
The council meets two times a year -- once at the conclusion of the JAA National Conference each June and once in the Fall/Winter. Meetings are planned significantly in advance. One-hour conference calls to discuss new initiatives, project updates, and general business occur at least six times per year. Project work is limited and spread out so as not to be a burden to any member of the council.
How do I utilize or get involved in the CAC?
If you have questions about work already completed or are interested in participating in the council, feel free to contact the AJCU director of communications.
Where do we go from here?
The success of the CAC is directly tied to the involvement, commitment and project choices of its membership. We encourage you to get take advantage of what's currently available and help to chart the future course of the Communications Advisory Council.
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