Media 101: Communications professor gives tips to community groups

Kevin Kawamoto

In December the UW hosted a “Media Relations 101 Workshop” for 20 members of community nonprofit organizations.

The first workshop of its kind ever held on campus, sponsored jointly by the School of Communications and the Office of Community Affairs, was an introduction to effective media relations. It covered such issues as how to find media in the community, how to put together a media contact database and how to write a public service announcement. It also addressed the basics of journalistic writing, putting together a media kit, and how to evaluate outcomes. Participants gained first-hand experience by practicing press releases, role playing and talking to people who have worked in media relations.

Kevin Kawamoto, assistant professor of communications, led the workshop. “I think the Office of Community Affairs has done a terrific job creating bridges between the university and the community through efforts like this one,” he said, “and I am thrilled to have been a part of it.”

The response to the workshop was so strong that it is likely to be the first in a series for community organizations. Possible future topics include crisis media relations, Web page development, working with editorial boards and creating press packets. For information on future workshops, contact the Office of Community Affairs at 221-4246.

“This is a great way for the University to offer its expertise to the community,” said Bridgett Chandler, Director of Community Affairs. “We also expect that internship opportunities for our students will result from the workshops.” ¶