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Public Relations Campaign Proposal for the 	
  
Murray State University Institute for International Studies
	
  
	
  
	
  
Alaina Stewart – President	
  
Savana Smothers – Editorial Director	
  
Craig Taylor – Research Director	
  
Lamont Crittendon – Media Relations Specialist
Table of Contents
	
  
	
  
	
  
Executive summary……………………………………………………………………………... 3	
  
Agency Overview………………………………………………………………………………... 4	
  
Corporate Background…………………………………………………………………………. 9	
  
Industry Analysis………………………………………………………………………………... 11	
  
Central Problem Statement……………………………………………………………………. 12	
  
Central Message Themes………………………………………………………………………. 12	
  
Targeted Publics…………………………………………………………………………………. 13	
  
Public Relations Plan……………………………………………………………………………. 15	
  
Line-Item Budget…………………………………………………………………………………. 24	
  
Timetable…………………………………………………………………………………………... 25	
  
Evaluative Measures……………………………………………………………………………... 27	
  
	
  
Supporting Documents………………………………………………………………………….. 28
Page
[3]	
  
	
  
Executive Summary
The Murray State University Institute for International Studies (IIS) office is located in Woods Hall on
the Murray State campus. On the pages that follow, World Public Relations has developed a one-year
“standing” public relations plan to help the office reach its full potential and increase overall engagement with
students who may potentially decide to participate in a study abroad program. The campaign includes many
ideas to help overall communications with Murray State students, faculty, staff and third-party resources. The
PR plan and tactics presented herein address issues of image and communication. All work is based upon
extensive primary and secondary research. The overall goal of the campaign is to increase awareness of and
education about study abroad in furtherance of the university mission to increase recruitment by 25%.
[4]	
  
	
  
Agency Overview
	
  
	
  
	
  
	
  
“Our overall objective is to help clients achieve reputational success in their overall
communications and marketing goals.”	
  
	
  
	
  
Meet the Team	
  
	
  
Alaina Stewart - President 	
  
	
  
Oversees day-to-day agency operations and manages new business acquisitions.	
  
	
  
Savana Smothers - Editorial Director 	
  
	
  
Oversees the generation of all editorial and creative content.	
  
	
  
Craig Taylor - Research Director	
  
	
  
Conducts primary and secondary research, analyzes data and supports the planning phase of all client
campaigns. 	
  
	
  
Lamont Crittendon - Media Relations Specialist 	
  
	
  
Disseminates editorial and other media content; manages relationships with editors, reporters and
producers at mass media outlets and manages the media distribution list and process.
	
  
	
   	
  
[5]	
  
	
  
Alaina Maria Stewart
1515 Lowes Drive, Apt. B | Murray, KY 42071 | C: 207.538.5351
astewart19@murraystate.edu
EDUCATION Murray State University, Murray, KY
Bachelors of Science, Public Relations Major, Sociology Minor; May 2017
Bachelors of Science, Advertising Major; May 2017
EXPERIENCE Rotech Healthcare; Murray, KY | AHCC Patient Care Coordinator | April 2014-Present
• Provide emergency service for patients needing assistance after business hours
• Improve processes to manage time more efficiently
• Handle information for insurance companies
• Complete additional tasks for the Murray Operations team
John Millar Civic Center; Houlton, ME | Employee | August 2009-January 2014
• Provide excellent customer service
• Ensure safety of ice skaters during public sessions
• Help coordinate practices and game schedules for SAMHA and local hockey teams
• Maintenance work
ACTIVITIES Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority | Public Relations Chair
Public Relations Student Society of America | Collegiate Member
Sociology Club | Collegiate Member
Campus Outreach | Collegiate Member
ADS Club | Collegiate Member
Lions Club | Collegiate Member
VOLUNTEER Houlton Regional Hospital; Houlton, ME | 2012 & 2013
Houlton Recreation Center; Houlton, ME | 2012 & 2013
Intramural Sports Referee; Murray, KY | 2013 & 2014
Young Athletes; Murray, KY | 2014
Best Buddies; Murray, KY | 2014 & 2015
Red Cross Blood Drives; Murray, KY | 2014 & 2015
SKILLS Leadership: Display a strong work ethic, ability to lead, handle responsibility, manage
time effectively, use critical thinking, and display highly developed team skills
Social Media: Proficient in Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Blogging
Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills
Computer Software: Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google
Docs, Google Spreadsheets, MAC applications
[6]	
  
	
  
Jimmy Craig Taylor
1542 Diuguid Drive, Apt. E | Murray, KY 42071 | C: 270.847.8854
jtaylor6@murraystate.edu
EDUCATION Murray State University, Murray, KY
Bachelors of Science, Public Relations Major; Nonprofit Leadership Minor; May 2016
KIIS Bregenz, Austria Study Abroad, Bregenz, Austria
KIIS Paris I Study Abroad, Paris France
EXPERIENCE Educational Abroad Office; Murray, KY | Student Worker | August 2015- Present
• Assist with clerical work
• Provide excellent customer service
Future Grounds Coffee Shop; Murray, KY | Barista | November 2014-Present
• Provide excellent customer service
• Communicate with both a small and large team
• Handle sums of cash throughout the day
Hart Cafe; Murray, KY | Barista & Supervisor | August 2010-December 2014
• Communicate with all employees (scheduling, hiring/firing, training)
• Reporting payroll weekly and labor
• Provide excellent customer service
Bridgestone Arena/LP Field; Nashville, TN | Event Staff | May 2014-July 2014
• Provide assistance to guests in order to enhance their event experience
• Have thorough knowledge of building policies, procedures and event requirements
• Provide access control, crowd management and ensure the venue is safe for all guests
ACTIVITIES Murray State University Racer Band | Section Leader & Public Relations Coordinator
Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity | Collegiate Member
Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia | Collegiate Member
Student Ambassador | Murray State University Recruitment Office Tour Guide
VOLUNTEER Drum Corps International: Atlanta; Atlanta, GA | Load-in & Load-out | 2013 & 2014
Murray State University Women’s Center; Murray, KY | 2014
INTERNSHIP The Cavalier’s Drum & Bugle Corps; Rosemont, IL | Fundraising Development Intern
• Cultivating alumni and donor relationships
• Help develop, execute, and manage fundraising campaigns and events.
• Manage donor-centric web, print, email, and social media content
SKILLS General Software: Proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, MAC and PC
Social Media: Proficient in Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Blogging
Personal: Strong verbal and written communication and organizational skills, quick
learner, strong problem solving skills, and a strong customer service background
Coursework: Newswriting, Electronic Imaging, and Mass Communication
Certifications: ServSafe Food Protection Manger Certification; May 2014
[7]	
  
	
  
Savana Lynn Smothers
476 Murphy Street | Benton, KY 42025 | C: 270.906.5740
savanna_smothers@hotmail.com
EDUCATION Murray State University, Murray, KY
August 2014-Present
Bethel University, Nashville, TN
August 2013-May 2014
Marshall County High School, Benton, KY
August 2009-May 2013
EXPERIENCE BFUMC; Benton, KY | Youth Director| September 2015- Present
BFUMC; Benton, KY | Interim Youth Director | July 2015-August 2015
MSU Wesley Foundation; Murray, KY | Worship Leader | November 2010-Present
Lakeshore Camp; Eva, TN | Camp Counselor| Summer/Winter Camps 2013-Present
Murray-Calloway County Hospital; Murray, KY | Intern | Summer 2014
• Planning, Marketing, and Public Relations
ACTIVITIES Benton First United Methodist Church
VOLUNTEER BFUMC Vacation Bible School; Summer 2013, 2014, 2015
Soccer Coach and Trainer; August 2010-Present
SKILLS General Software: Proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, MAC and PC
Social Media: Proficient in Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Blogging
Personal: Strong verbal and written communication and organizational skills, quick
learner, strong problem solving skills, and a strong customer service background
Coursework: Psychology, Sociology, Gender Diversity Studies, Public Speaking,
Newswriting, Audio and Video Production, Web Page Design, Photography, Mass
Media, and Spanish
AWARDS MCHS Soccer; Team Leadership Award | 2011, 2012, 2013
MCHS Soccer; Team Captain | 2012-2013
Bethel University; Team Leadership Award | 2014
MCHS; Mass Media Top Student Award; 2013
MCHS JV Soccer; Team Captain; 2008-2010
[8]	
  
	
  
Lamont Crittendon
1505 Diuguid Dr. | Murray, KY 42071 | C: 256.822.4726
lcrittendon@murraystate.edu
EDUCATION Murray State University, Murray, KY
Bachelors of Science, Public Relations Major, Physical Education Minor; Winter 2016
EXPERIENCE General Electric; Decatur, AL | Assembly Line | June 2015-July 2015
• Assisted in the building of refrigerator compressors
• Communicate with a small and large team
• Stock needed resources throughout the factory
• Managed individual tasks
Sami’s Place; |Cashier and Server | Summer 2013 and Summer 2014
• Provide excellent customer service
• Handle sums of cash throughout the day
• Assisted in the cleaning of the restaurant
• Assisted in the preparation of the products sold
• Assisted in the advertisement and publicity of the restaurant
ACTIVITIES Murray State University Football| Football Player
Campus Outreach | Member
VOLUNTEER WAR Zone; Murray, KY | Event Staff | 2015
Read Across America; Murray, KY | Read to classes | 2014
National Walk to School Day; Murray, KY | Assistant | 2013
Daikin Festival; Decatur, AL | Event Staff | 2013
SKILLS General Software: Proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, MAC and PC,
Adobe Photoshop Software, Movie Maker, Google Drive, Notepad ++, and Microsoft
Expression Web
Social Media: Proficient in Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Introductory Blogging
Personal: Strong verbal and written communication and organizational skills, quick
learner, strong problem solving skills, a strong customer service background, team
player, and strong idea presenter.
Coursework: Newswriting, Electronic Imaging, Mass Communication, Web Page
Design, Video Production, and Public Speaking.
Certifications: CPR
[9]	
  
	
  
Corporate Background
The Murray State University Education Abroad Office, Institute for International Studies,
is located in Woods Hall on the campus of Murray State University. It exists to promote the
value of educational opportunities abroad. The overall objective of the office is to provide
assistance to students participating in various programs that benefit their interest in education
abroad.
The Education Abroad Office was first developed through the Department of Modern
Languages relationship to the study abroad consortium, KIIS (Kentucky Institute of International
Studies) in 1974, which sent the first Murray State University study abroad students to Bregenz,
Austria. In 1982, CCSA (Cooperative Center for Study Abroad) became a consortium partner to
MSU offices for both KIIS and CCSA are located at Western Kentucky University in Bowling
Green, Kentucky. In 1991, the Center for International Programs opened at MSU, contributing to
both study abroad and managing incoming international students.
In 2002, Melanie McCallon Sieb became Coordinator for International Exchange
Students and Study Abroad, which led her to be the first full-time study abroad staff member in
2003. The office started to grow in 2005 when it hired an administrative assistant to help with
important tasks. The office has continuously increased recruitment and has now added an advisor
and an associate director. In 2009, McCallon Sieb became the Educational Abroad Director.
McCallon Sieb manages the office, with the assistance of the Education Abroad
Advisors, Educational Abroad Coordinator and Student Workers. Educational Abroad Robyn
Pizzo and Jamie Booth assist in advising students interested in education abroad. The
[10]	
  
	
  
Educational Abroad Coordinator, Beth Acreman, assists with special events, statistics, the
Horizons platform and many other important responsibilities.
The Educational Abroad Office is a small department that provides exceptional
opportunities to MSU students. The office is here to help broaden the perspectives of cultures
abroad, as well as the purpose of higher education.
	
  
[11]	
  
	
  
Industry Analysis
	
  
The education industry generates over 500 billion dollars a year, some of which helps
fund education opportunities abroad. Over the last two decades, the number of U.S. study abroad
students more than tripled. Studies show that the majority of students attending universities and
colleges today intend to study abroad while completing their undergraduate degrees, however
data indicates that only a small percentage of students will actually engage in study abroad
opportunities. Currently, 91 percent of U.S. colleges and universities have study abroad
programs, of which, 83 percent plan to grow in the coming years. Murray State University is
trying to increase its study abroad participation by 25% in 2015-2016, which amounts to an
additional 100 students.
	
  
	
   	
  
[12]	
  
	
  
Central Problem Statement
There is a lack of participation in Murray State study abroad programs and a lack of
awareness regarding the array of available programs.
Central Message Themes
• Provides study abroad opportunities for all majors
• Offers scholarships for a large percentage of applicants
• Offers MSU faculty-led programs and programs from outside providers
• Hosts information sessions for students interested in participating
• Offers programs of varying length, focus and cost
[13]	
  
	
  
Targeted Publics
Public #1 – Murray State University Students
There are approximately 11,000 students enrolled at Murray State University. According
to the Murray State Factbook, only 262 students (2% of student) participated in the study abroad
program during the 2013-2014 academic school year.
Murray State University has 1,399 total baccalaureate programs and 714 master and
specialist degrees. The study abroad programs offer courses for all majors that can be counted as
university credit.
Public #2 - Murray State University Faculty Members
There are approximately 450 faculty members at Murray State University. Faculty
members are the only people on campus that interact with a large number of students daily.
Opinions of faculty members are respected and have can have a large influence on students.
Each academic building on campus has a study abroad representative to help promote
programs that offer opportunities for students and faculty member within their curriculum.
Public #3 – Mass Media Outlets
Every community relies on mass media for news and information. Both on and off
campus mass media outlets are able to reach large audiences.
[14]	
  
	
  
The agency will distribute media kits and news releases to the following media list:
• Print
o The Murray Ledger & Times
o The Murray State News
• Broadcast
o WKMS Radio
o MSU TV 11
• Internet
o TheNews.org
o Racer Nation Information
o Murrayledger.com
[15]	
  
	
  
Public Relations Plan
Goal:	
  
To	
  raise	
  awareness	
  of	
  study	
  abroad	
  at	
  
Murray	
  State	
  University	
  and	
  all	
  of	
  the	
  
available	
  options	
  
Objective	
  1:	
  
	
  
To	
  reach	
  75%	
  of	
  students	
  
with	
  key	
  messaging	
  
within	
  12	
  months.	
  
Objective	
  2:	
  
	
  
To	
  reach	
  90%	
  of	
  MSU	
  
faculty	
  with	
  key	
  
messaging	
  within	
  12	
  
months.	
  
Objective	
  3:	
  
	
  
To	
  reach	
  16-­‐20	
  media	
  
placements	
  over	
  12	
  
months.	
  
Strategy	
  1:	
  
	
  
Rebrand	
  and	
  establish	
  a	
  
vibrant	
  social	
  media	
  
presence	
  using	
  Facebook,	
  
Twitter	
  and	
  Instagram	
  
Strategy	
  2:	
  
	
  
Special	
  events	
  
Strategy	
  3:	
  
	
  
Media	
  Relations	
  
Tactic	
  3:	
  
	
  
-­‐News	
  releases	
  
-­‐Media	
  Advisories	
  
-­‐Media	
  Kits	
  
Tactic	
  2:	
  
	
  
-­‐	
  “Around	
  the	
  World	
  in	
  
80	
  Days	
  –Faculty	
  
Appreciation	
  Night.”	
  
Tactic	
  1:	
  
	
  
-­‐	
  Relaunch	
  the	
  Facebook	
  
business	
  page	
  
-­‐	
  Instagram	
  
[16]	
  
	
  
TACTIC: Special Event – Faculty
Appreciation Night
Targeted Public: Murray State Faculty
Rationale: Special events are an effective means of building and improving relationships in a
face-to-face environment.
Implementation: The agency will conduct one special event during the fall semester that is
directed towards faculty members for the Murray State Education Abroad Office. The theme of
the events is “Around the World in 80 Days – Faculty Appreciation Night.” The event will
showcase the impact of faculty members on study abroad participation. The event will be held in
the Curris Center Ballroom and will provide food from Murray State’s dining services for people
in attendance. There will be faculty speakers who have previously taught abroad to share their
experiences. The events will contain informational packets that include:
• Brochures for all established programs
• Copies of recent article (media coverage)
• Links to all social media accounts and the study abroad website
The overall goal of this special event is to increase faculty participation and awareness of study
abroad programs. The event will be promoted through flyers, posters, news releases and
distribution of the media kit to study abroad ambassadors across campus, as well as through
social media.
[17]	
  
	
  
Sample Event Logo:
Faculty Appreciation Night
[18]	
  
	
  
TACTIC: Facebook Page
Targeted Public: Murray State Students
Rationale: Facebook is the largest and most widely used of all social networks with more than
1.5 billion users worldwide. Through Facebook, the IIS office can showcase program details,
photos and live conversations with students travelling with its programs. It lends itself as a few
site for students and program leaders to share pictures, updates, locations and calendar dates that
promote Study Abroad without feeling “promotional.” This is the key to providing information
to students who do not yet know the real value of study abroad. .
Implementation: According to our primary research, a vast majority of Murray State students
are on Facebook which makes this ideal as a strategic component for a standing PR campaign.
The agency will redesign the existing Timeline Cover and About Tab at the existing
page. A social content strategy will be crafted to include specific goals and measurable
objectives relating to ongoing social engagement, reach and frequency.
Posting at least once every 24 hours will allow us to maximize organic reach through
Facebook’s post EdgeRank algorithm. Focusing on video content and hashtag-centered
campaigns will enable the team to piggyback on the popularity of the main MSU Facebook page,
thus furthering our reach. According to secondary research studying 670,000 Facebook posts by
4,445 brand pages, we know that quality video posts reach more users and get more views.
[19]	
  
	
  
World PR will develop a strategic content plan that embraces the following components:
• Highlight major events and holidays that students are participating in during study
abroad experiences.
• Implement the hashtag #RacersAbroad in order to track Murray State students during
their travels.
• Hashtag (#) campaign strategy: Each day of the week gets its own hashtag:
#MotivationalMonday #TravelTuesday #WhereAreYouWednesday
#ThrowbackThursday #PhototasticFriday #SightSeeingSaturday #SuitcaseSunday
The agency team believes strongly that using Facebook for outreach is essential to promoting
study abroad to everyone at Murray State and around the globe. Promotion of study abroad
through Facebook will also assist Murray State’s consortium partners well as attract more
students from outside the area who may be future potential MSU students.
	
  
[20]	
  
	
  
TACTIC: Instagram Page
Targeted Public: Murray State Students
Rationale: Instagram is currently the fastest-growing social media network in the world, with
over 400 million subscribers. It has quickly grown from an IOS-only app to a massive social
network. Since its purchase by Facebook in 2012, the network’s financial resources have steadily
grown.
Implementation: After doing some research we found that there is a large number of Murray
State students that use Instagram. Instagram is a great tool to use to reach our goal of raising
awareness at Murray State for Study Abroad.
Murray State’s study abroad office is currently active on Instagram. Our team will create a
plan to expand this social media presence, increase the number of people that follow page and
increase the number of people that post to the page. Our team will work closely with the client
staff to ensure that photo content is on-target with the public we’re trying to engage. An initial
30-day posting plan will be submitted once campaign tactics are approved. The following page
contains several examples of potential Instagram content that portrays the agency’s creative
approach to building awareness and real social “engagement” through the relationship-building
power of Instagram.
We strongly believe that there is a place for Instagram in this public relations campaign.
With the agency’s experience and past success in cultivating and growing Instagram followings,
we know how to effectively implement a plan for the Study Abroad Office. This is much more
[21]	
  
	
  
than a fun, photo-based social network. It can help promote products and services, gain customer
leads and generate conversions that lead to lasting consumer loyalty.
Our social strategy for Instagram includes the following:
• A weekly photo contest using the hashtag (#MotivationalMonday #TravelTuesday
#WhereAreWeWednesday #ThinkingThursday #PhotoFriday #SightSeeingSaturday
#SuitcaseSunday)
• Showcasing Products and Services on Tuesdays and Fridays at peak times, as indicated
via Instagram Insights (metrics applications).
• Telling the business story through effective use of images and videos.
• Posting to the profile page twice daily every day except Sunday each week.
• Adding more pizzazz to photos by adding text overlays to approximately 40% of images.
In addition, every photo posted will include and informative caption and an attention-
grabbing headline. Whether we’re sharing tips, promoting a sale or just furthering the
branding, followers will never miss the message with a professionally managed account.
[22]	
  
	
  
TACTIC: Media Kit
Targeted Public: Mass Media Outlets
Rationale: Media Kits are an effective tool that encompasses both digital and print to help
publicize complex stories that could have newsworthy elements.
Implementation: The agency will craft a complete media kit for the Murray State Education
Abroad Office. The print version will consist of a two-pocket folder that contains:
• Hard-copy news
• News releases
• Any current media advisories
• Feature stories
• A backgrounder
• A Fact Sheet
In digital form, the media kit materials will be saved on a DVD, including:
• Backgrounder
• Fact Sheet
• News Releases
• Digital Photos
• Digital Brochure
The overall goal of the media kit is to convey a cohesive message to all mass media contacts
from editors to producers and reporters. The media kit represents the entire PR campaign for this
[23]	
  
	
  
organization, and all materials in the kit support the overall message. The Education Abroad
Media Kit will be presented to all of the agency’s media contacts at:
• The Murray State News
• The Murray Ledger & Times
• Racer Nation Information (blog)
• The Paducah Sun
• Murray Life Magazine, and more.
The media kit offers a great opportunity to relay broad information to all news media outlets
in the regions the IIS office serves. The media kit will help generate news coverage about the
office, its programs and partners.
Sample Design for the DVD Cover and Back Cover:
[24]	
  
	
  
Line-Item Budget
Production of Media Kits $ 900.
Special Event $ 2,500.
Total: $ 3, 400.
[25]	
  
	
  
Timetable: January – December 2015
January
1- Re-establish social media pages
4- News Release #1
February
1- News Release #2
3-Send out media kit to mass media
outlets
4- Send out media kit to faculty
advisors
March
1- News Release #3
15- Faculty event
April
1- News release #4
May
2- News release #5
June
1- News Release #6
	
  
	
  
	
  
	
  
	
  
	
  
	
  
July
1- News Release #7
August
1- News Release #8
16- Send out media kit to mass
media outlets
September
1- News release #9
14- Faculty Event
October
3- News Release #10
November
1- News Release #11
December
1- News Release #12
[27]	
  
	
  
Evaluative Measures
Ensuring the client’s success is the primary mission of the agency. Measuring the
effectiveness of the four tactics outlined will help determine if the overall campaign is
successful and whether or not awareness and participation are increased.
Special Events
The agency will track the number attendees at each planned special event and conduct a
post-event survey.
Media Kits/News Releases
The agency will monitor the media outlets that news releases were disseminated to and
report the number of mass media hits, pickups and placements on a monthly basis.
Social Media
The agency will track the number of people who like the Facebook and Instagram pages
of the client using built-in analytics and monitoring tool. The agency will also monitor
the likes and comments on posts made on these accounts.
[28]	
  
	
  
	
  
Supporting
Documents
[29]	
  
	
  
Pre-Campaign Survey Results
	
  
	
  
[30]	
  
	
  
	
  
	
  
	
  
[31]	
  
	
  
	
  
[32]	
  
	
  
Competitive Analysis
	
  
	
   One of the biggest competitors in the industry are third party providers, such as
Bus2Alps and IES Study Abroad. Any student enrolled in a college or university are
eligible to participate. The popularity of these providers has greatly increased over the
past few years and they continue to grow. Other competitors include the churches in
Murray. There are currently around 50 different churches and organizations on and off
campus. A lot of these churches offer mission trips that allow students to go abroad. The
final competitors are students who choose to travel independently, or with family, instead
of applying to a program through the university.
	
   	
  
[33]	
  
	
  
S.W.O.T Analysis
The Murray State University Education Abroad programs have many strengths
and opportunities that we can work with at our agency. By using the already existing
social media resources and multiple program opportunities, we hope to make the
weaknesses such as cost concern and awareness ease for the students of MSU.
Strengths	
  
On	
  campus	
  representa-ves	
  
Already	
  using	
  social	
  media	
  outreach	
  
Students	
  currently	
  par-cipa-ng	
  in	
  the	
  
programs	
  offered	
  
Posi-ve	
  public	
  opinion	
  
Weaknessess	
  
Students	
  not	
  par-cipa-ng	
  share	
  a	
  common	
  
mindset	
  that	
  the	
  program	
  is	
  too	
  expensive	
  
Students	
  unaware	
  of	
  offices	
  in	
  Woods	
  Hall	
  
There	
  is	
  not	
  enough	
  pubic	
  discussion	
  of	
  the	
  
programs	
  on	
  campus	
  
Opportuni2es	
  
Mul-ple	
  op-ons	
  of	
  different	
  programs	
  	
  
Friendly	
  staff,	
  easy	
  to	
  work	
  with	
  
Growing	
  social	
  media	
  outreach	
  
Number	
  of	
  faculty	
  and	
  staff	
  involvement	
  on	
  
the	
  rise	
  
Interna-onal	
  opportuni-es	
  in	
  new	
  places	
  
Threats	
  
Financial	
  costs	
  for	
  students	
  
Student	
  par-cipa-on	
  
More	
  involvement	
  numbers	
  wanted	
  from	
  
school	
  officials	
  
Possible	
  future	
  cuts	
  in	
  funding	
  
Less	
  teacher	
  par-cipa-on	
  in	
  certain	
  
countries	
  
[34]	
  
	
  
Bibliography
	
  
Berhe, L. (2015, October 15). Generation Study Abroad: What it Means for You.
Retrieved from International Student Loan:
http://blog.internationalstudentloan.com/2015/10/generation-study-abroad-what-
it-means-for-you/
DeRuy, E. (2013, November 13). Facts Behind Studying Abroad. Retrieved from
National Journal: http://www.nationaljournal.com/next-america/education/facts-
behind-studying-abroad
Heisel, M., & Kissler, G. (2010). Financial Strategies for Expanding Study Abroad.
NAFSA, 1-40.
IBISWorld. (2015, August). Colleges and Universities in the US. Retrieved from
http://clients1.ibisworld.com.ezproxy.waterfield.murraystate.edu/reports/us/iexper
t/default.aspx?entid=1970
Institute of International Education. (2009). Expanding Study Abroad Capacity at U.S.
Colleges and Universities. Meeting America's Global Education Challenge, 1-45.
Institute of International Education. (2015). 2015 Fast Facts. Retrieved from IIE: iie.org
Institute of International Education. (n.d.). Number of U.S. Students Participating in
Study Abroad Programs and the U.S. Higer Education System in 2012/13.
Retrieved from Statista:
http://www.statista.com.ezproxy.waterfield.murraystate.edu/statistics/237724/nu
mber-of-us-students-participating-in-study-abroad-programs/
Maeve Duggan, N. E. (2015, January 9). Social Media Update 2014. Retrieved from Pew
Research Center: http://www.pewinternet.org/2015/01/09/social-media-update
2014/?beta=true&utm_expid=53098246-2.Lly4CFSVQG2lphsg-
KopIg.1&utm_referrer=http%3A%2F%2Frecode.net%2F2015%2F01%2F09%2F
instagram-is-the-fastest-growing-major-social-network%2F
MarketingCharts. (n.d.). Leading Social Media Websites in the United States. Retrieved
from Statista:
http://www.statista.com.ezproxy.waterfield.murraystate.edu/statistics/265773/mar
ket-share-of-the-most-popular-social-media-websites-in-the-us/
Murray State University. (2014). 2013-2014 Factbook. Retrieved from
http://www.murraystate.edu/Libraries/Institutional_Research/factbook2013.pdf
Raby, R. (2008, September). Expanding Education Abroad at U.S. Community Colleges.
Institute of International Education, 1-26.
Sood, S. (2012, September 26). The Statistics of Studying Abroad. Retrieved from BBC:
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PublicRelationsProposal

  • 1.                                        
  • 2.       Public Relations Campaign Proposal for the   Murray State University Institute for International Studies       Alaina Stewart – President   Savana Smothers – Editorial Director   Craig Taylor – Research Director   Lamont Crittendon – Media Relations Specialist
  • 3. Table of Contents       Executive summary……………………………………………………………………………... 3   Agency Overview………………………………………………………………………………... 4   Corporate Background…………………………………………………………………………. 9   Industry Analysis………………………………………………………………………………... 11   Central Problem Statement……………………………………………………………………. 12   Central Message Themes………………………………………………………………………. 12   Targeted Publics…………………………………………………………………………………. 13   Public Relations Plan……………………………………………………………………………. 15   Line-Item Budget…………………………………………………………………………………. 24   Timetable…………………………………………………………………………………………... 25   Evaluative Measures……………………………………………………………………………... 27     Supporting Documents………………………………………………………………………….. 28 Page
  • 4. [3]     Executive Summary The Murray State University Institute for International Studies (IIS) office is located in Woods Hall on the Murray State campus. On the pages that follow, World Public Relations has developed a one-year “standing” public relations plan to help the office reach its full potential and increase overall engagement with students who may potentially decide to participate in a study abroad program. The campaign includes many ideas to help overall communications with Murray State students, faculty, staff and third-party resources. The PR plan and tactics presented herein address issues of image and communication. All work is based upon extensive primary and secondary research. The overall goal of the campaign is to increase awareness of and education about study abroad in furtherance of the university mission to increase recruitment by 25%.
  • 5. [4]     Agency Overview         “Our overall objective is to help clients achieve reputational success in their overall communications and marketing goals.”       Meet the Team     Alaina Stewart - President     Oversees day-to-day agency operations and manages new business acquisitions.     Savana Smothers - Editorial Director     Oversees the generation of all editorial and creative content.     Craig Taylor - Research Director     Conducts primary and secondary research, analyzes data and supports the planning phase of all client campaigns.     Lamont Crittendon - Media Relations Specialist     Disseminates editorial and other media content; manages relationships with editors, reporters and producers at mass media outlets and manages the media distribution list and process.      
  • 6. [5]     Alaina Maria Stewart 1515 Lowes Drive, Apt. B | Murray, KY 42071 | C: 207.538.5351 astewart19@murraystate.edu EDUCATION Murray State University, Murray, KY Bachelors of Science, Public Relations Major, Sociology Minor; May 2017 Bachelors of Science, Advertising Major; May 2017 EXPERIENCE Rotech Healthcare; Murray, KY | AHCC Patient Care Coordinator | April 2014-Present • Provide emergency service for patients needing assistance after business hours • Improve processes to manage time more efficiently • Handle information for insurance companies • Complete additional tasks for the Murray Operations team John Millar Civic Center; Houlton, ME | Employee | August 2009-January 2014 • Provide excellent customer service • Ensure safety of ice skaters during public sessions • Help coordinate practices and game schedules for SAMHA and local hockey teams • Maintenance work ACTIVITIES Alpha Gamma Delta Sorority | Public Relations Chair Public Relations Student Society of America | Collegiate Member Sociology Club | Collegiate Member Campus Outreach | Collegiate Member ADS Club | Collegiate Member Lions Club | Collegiate Member VOLUNTEER Houlton Regional Hospital; Houlton, ME | 2012 & 2013 Houlton Recreation Center; Houlton, ME | 2012 & 2013 Intramural Sports Referee; Murray, KY | 2013 & 2014 Young Athletes; Murray, KY | 2014 Best Buddies; Murray, KY | 2014 & 2015 Red Cross Blood Drives; Murray, KY | 2014 & 2015 SKILLS Leadership: Display a strong work ethic, ability to lead, handle responsibility, manage time effectively, use critical thinking, and display highly developed team skills Social Media: Proficient in Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn and Blogging Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills Computer Software: Knowledge of Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Google Docs, Google Spreadsheets, MAC applications
  • 7. [6]     Jimmy Craig Taylor 1542 Diuguid Drive, Apt. E | Murray, KY 42071 | C: 270.847.8854 jtaylor6@murraystate.edu EDUCATION Murray State University, Murray, KY Bachelors of Science, Public Relations Major; Nonprofit Leadership Minor; May 2016 KIIS Bregenz, Austria Study Abroad, Bregenz, Austria KIIS Paris I Study Abroad, Paris France EXPERIENCE Educational Abroad Office; Murray, KY | Student Worker | August 2015- Present • Assist with clerical work • Provide excellent customer service Future Grounds Coffee Shop; Murray, KY | Barista | November 2014-Present • Provide excellent customer service • Communicate with both a small and large team • Handle sums of cash throughout the day Hart Cafe; Murray, KY | Barista & Supervisor | August 2010-December 2014 • Communicate with all employees (scheduling, hiring/firing, training) • Reporting payroll weekly and labor • Provide excellent customer service Bridgestone Arena/LP Field; Nashville, TN | Event Staff | May 2014-July 2014 • Provide assistance to guests in order to enhance their event experience • Have thorough knowledge of building policies, procedures and event requirements • Provide access control, crowd management and ensure the venue is safe for all guests ACTIVITIES Murray State University Racer Band | Section Leader & Public Relations Coordinator Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity | Collegiate Member Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia | Collegiate Member Student Ambassador | Murray State University Recruitment Office Tour Guide VOLUNTEER Drum Corps International: Atlanta; Atlanta, GA | Load-in & Load-out | 2013 & 2014 Murray State University Women’s Center; Murray, KY | 2014 INTERNSHIP The Cavalier’s Drum & Bugle Corps; Rosemont, IL | Fundraising Development Intern • Cultivating alumni and donor relationships • Help develop, execute, and manage fundraising campaigns and events. • Manage donor-centric web, print, email, and social media content SKILLS General Software: Proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, MAC and PC Social Media: Proficient in Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Blogging Personal: Strong verbal and written communication and organizational skills, quick learner, strong problem solving skills, and a strong customer service background Coursework: Newswriting, Electronic Imaging, and Mass Communication Certifications: ServSafe Food Protection Manger Certification; May 2014
  • 8. [7]     Savana Lynn Smothers 476 Murphy Street | Benton, KY 42025 | C: 270.906.5740 savanna_smothers@hotmail.com EDUCATION Murray State University, Murray, KY August 2014-Present Bethel University, Nashville, TN August 2013-May 2014 Marshall County High School, Benton, KY August 2009-May 2013 EXPERIENCE BFUMC; Benton, KY | Youth Director| September 2015- Present BFUMC; Benton, KY | Interim Youth Director | July 2015-August 2015 MSU Wesley Foundation; Murray, KY | Worship Leader | November 2010-Present Lakeshore Camp; Eva, TN | Camp Counselor| Summer/Winter Camps 2013-Present Murray-Calloway County Hospital; Murray, KY | Intern | Summer 2014 • Planning, Marketing, and Public Relations ACTIVITIES Benton First United Methodist Church VOLUNTEER BFUMC Vacation Bible School; Summer 2013, 2014, 2015 Soccer Coach and Trainer; August 2010-Present SKILLS General Software: Proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, MAC and PC Social Media: Proficient in Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Blogging Personal: Strong verbal and written communication and organizational skills, quick learner, strong problem solving skills, and a strong customer service background Coursework: Psychology, Sociology, Gender Diversity Studies, Public Speaking, Newswriting, Audio and Video Production, Web Page Design, Photography, Mass Media, and Spanish AWARDS MCHS Soccer; Team Leadership Award | 2011, 2012, 2013 MCHS Soccer; Team Captain | 2012-2013 Bethel University; Team Leadership Award | 2014 MCHS; Mass Media Top Student Award; 2013 MCHS JV Soccer; Team Captain; 2008-2010
  • 9. [8]     Lamont Crittendon 1505 Diuguid Dr. | Murray, KY 42071 | C: 256.822.4726 lcrittendon@murraystate.edu EDUCATION Murray State University, Murray, KY Bachelors of Science, Public Relations Major, Physical Education Minor; Winter 2016 EXPERIENCE General Electric; Decatur, AL | Assembly Line | June 2015-July 2015 • Assisted in the building of refrigerator compressors • Communicate with a small and large team • Stock needed resources throughout the factory • Managed individual tasks Sami’s Place; |Cashier and Server | Summer 2013 and Summer 2014 • Provide excellent customer service • Handle sums of cash throughout the day • Assisted in the cleaning of the restaurant • Assisted in the preparation of the products sold • Assisted in the advertisement and publicity of the restaurant ACTIVITIES Murray State University Football| Football Player Campus Outreach | Member VOLUNTEER WAR Zone; Murray, KY | Event Staff | 2015 Read Across America; Murray, KY | Read to classes | 2014 National Walk to School Day; Murray, KY | Assistant | 2013 Daikin Festival; Decatur, AL | Event Staff | 2013 SKILLS General Software: Proficient in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel, MAC and PC, Adobe Photoshop Software, Movie Maker, Google Drive, Notepad ++, and Microsoft Expression Web Social Media: Proficient in Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Introductory Blogging Personal: Strong verbal and written communication and organizational skills, quick learner, strong problem solving skills, a strong customer service background, team player, and strong idea presenter. Coursework: Newswriting, Electronic Imaging, Mass Communication, Web Page Design, Video Production, and Public Speaking. Certifications: CPR
  • 10. [9]     Corporate Background The Murray State University Education Abroad Office, Institute for International Studies, is located in Woods Hall on the campus of Murray State University. It exists to promote the value of educational opportunities abroad. The overall objective of the office is to provide assistance to students participating in various programs that benefit their interest in education abroad. The Education Abroad Office was first developed through the Department of Modern Languages relationship to the study abroad consortium, KIIS (Kentucky Institute of International Studies) in 1974, which sent the first Murray State University study abroad students to Bregenz, Austria. In 1982, CCSA (Cooperative Center for Study Abroad) became a consortium partner to MSU offices for both KIIS and CCSA are located at Western Kentucky University in Bowling Green, Kentucky. In 1991, the Center for International Programs opened at MSU, contributing to both study abroad and managing incoming international students. In 2002, Melanie McCallon Sieb became Coordinator for International Exchange Students and Study Abroad, which led her to be the first full-time study abroad staff member in 2003. The office started to grow in 2005 when it hired an administrative assistant to help with important tasks. The office has continuously increased recruitment and has now added an advisor and an associate director. In 2009, McCallon Sieb became the Educational Abroad Director. McCallon Sieb manages the office, with the assistance of the Education Abroad Advisors, Educational Abroad Coordinator and Student Workers. Educational Abroad Robyn Pizzo and Jamie Booth assist in advising students interested in education abroad. The
  • 11. [10]     Educational Abroad Coordinator, Beth Acreman, assists with special events, statistics, the Horizons platform and many other important responsibilities. The Educational Abroad Office is a small department that provides exceptional opportunities to MSU students. The office is here to help broaden the perspectives of cultures abroad, as well as the purpose of higher education.  
  • 12. [11]     Industry Analysis   The education industry generates over 500 billion dollars a year, some of which helps fund education opportunities abroad. Over the last two decades, the number of U.S. study abroad students more than tripled. Studies show that the majority of students attending universities and colleges today intend to study abroad while completing their undergraduate degrees, however data indicates that only a small percentage of students will actually engage in study abroad opportunities. Currently, 91 percent of U.S. colleges and universities have study abroad programs, of which, 83 percent plan to grow in the coming years. Murray State University is trying to increase its study abroad participation by 25% in 2015-2016, which amounts to an additional 100 students.      
  • 13. [12]     Central Problem Statement There is a lack of participation in Murray State study abroad programs and a lack of awareness regarding the array of available programs. Central Message Themes • Provides study abroad opportunities for all majors • Offers scholarships for a large percentage of applicants • Offers MSU faculty-led programs and programs from outside providers • Hosts information sessions for students interested in participating • Offers programs of varying length, focus and cost
  • 14. [13]     Targeted Publics Public #1 – Murray State University Students There are approximately 11,000 students enrolled at Murray State University. According to the Murray State Factbook, only 262 students (2% of student) participated in the study abroad program during the 2013-2014 academic school year. Murray State University has 1,399 total baccalaureate programs and 714 master and specialist degrees. The study abroad programs offer courses for all majors that can be counted as university credit. Public #2 - Murray State University Faculty Members There are approximately 450 faculty members at Murray State University. Faculty members are the only people on campus that interact with a large number of students daily. Opinions of faculty members are respected and have can have a large influence on students. Each academic building on campus has a study abroad representative to help promote programs that offer opportunities for students and faculty member within their curriculum. Public #3 – Mass Media Outlets Every community relies on mass media for news and information. Both on and off campus mass media outlets are able to reach large audiences.
  • 15. [14]     The agency will distribute media kits and news releases to the following media list: • Print o The Murray Ledger & Times o The Murray State News • Broadcast o WKMS Radio o MSU TV 11 • Internet o TheNews.org o Racer Nation Information o Murrayledger.com
  • 16. [15]     Public Relations Plan Goal:   To  raise  awareness  of  study  abroad  at   Murray  State  University  and  all  of  the   available  options   Objective  1:     To  reach  75%  of  students   with  key  messaging   within  12  months.   Objective  2:     To  reach  90%  of  MSU   faculty  with  key   messaging  within  12   months.   Objective  3:     To  reach  16-­‐20  media   placements  over  12   months.   Strategy  1:     Rebrand  and  establish  a   vibrant  social  media   presence  using  Facebook,   Twitter  and  Instagram   Strategy  2:     Special  events   Strategy  3:     Media  Relations   Tactic  3:     -­‐News  releases   -­‐Media  Advisories   -­‐Media  Kits   Tactic  2:     -­‐  “Around  the  World  in   80  Days  –Faculty   Appreciation  Night.”   Tactic  1:     -­‐  Relaunch  the  Facebook   business  page   -­‐  Instagram  
  • 17. [16]     TACTIC: Special Event – Faculty Appreciation Night Targeted Public: Murray State Faculty Rationale: Special events are an effective means of building and improving relationships in a face-to-face environment. Implementation: The agency will conduct one special event during the fall semester that is directed towards faculty members for the Murray State Education Abroad Office. The theme of the events is “Around the World in 80 Days – Faculty Appreciation Night.” The event will showcase the impact of faculty members on study abroad participation. The event will be held in the Curris Center Ballroom and will provide food from Murray State’s dining services for people in attendance. There will be faculty speakers who have previously taught abroad to share their experiences. The events will contain informational packets that include: • Brochures for all established programs • Copies of recent article (media coverage) • Links to all social media accounts and the study abroad website The overall goal of this special event is to increase faculty participation and awareness of study abroad programs. The event will be promoted through flyers, posters, news releases and distribution of the media kit to study abroad ambassadors across campus, as well as through social media.
  • 18. [17]     Sample Event Logo: Faculty Appreciation Night
  • 19. [18]     TACTIC: Facebook Page Targeted Public: Murray State Students Rationale: Facebook is the largest and most widely used of all social networks with more than 1.5 billion users worldwide. Through Facebook, the IIS office can showcase program details, photos and live conversations with students travelling with its programs. It lends itself as a few site for students and program leaders to share pictures, updates, locations and calendar dates that promote Study Abroad without feeling “promotional.” This is the key to providing information to students who do not yet know the real value of study abroad. . Implementation: According to our primary research, a vast majority of Murray State students are on Facebook which makes this ideal as a strategic component for a standing PR campaign. The agency will redesign the existing Timeline Cover and About Tab at the existing page. A social content strategy will be crafted to include specific goals and measurable objectives relating to ongoing social engagement, reach and frequency. Posting at least once every 24 hours will allow us to maximize organic reach through Facebook’s post EdgeRank algorithm. Focusing on video content and hashtag-centered campaigns will enable the team to piggyback on the popularity of the main MSU Facebook page, thus furthering our reach. According to secondary research studying 670,000 Facebook posts by 4,445 brand pages, we know that quality video posts reach more users and get more views.
  • 20. [19]     World PR will develop a strategic content plan that embraces the following components: • Highlight major events and holidays that students are participating in during study abroad experiences. • Implement the hashtag #RacersAbroad in order to track Murray State students during their travels. • Hashtag (#) campaign strategy: Each day of the week gets its own hashtag: #MotivationalMonday #TravelTuesday #WhereAreYouWednesday #ThrowbackThursday #PhototasticFriday #SightSeeingSaturday #SuitcaseSunday The agency team believes strongly that using Facebook for outreach is essential to promoting study abroad to everyone at Murray State and around the globe. Promotion of study abroad through Facebook will also assist Murray State’s consortium partners well as attract more students from outside the area who may be future potential MSU students.  
  • 21. [20]     TACTIC: Instagram Page Targeted Public: Murray State Students Rationale: Instagram is currently the fastest-growing social media network in the world, with over 400 million subscribers. It has quickly grown from an IOS-only app to a massive social network. Since its purchase by Facebook in 2012, the network’s financial resources have steadily grown. Implementation: After doing some research we found that there is a large number of Murray State students that use Instagram. Instagram is a great tool to use to reach our goal of raising awareness at Murray State for Study Abroad. Murray State’s study abroad office is currently active on Instagram. Our team will create a plan to expand this social media presence, increase the number of people that follow page and increase the number of people that post to the page. Our team will work closely with the client staff to ensure that photo content is on-target with the public we’re trying to engage. An initial 30-day posting plan will be submitted once campaign tactics are approved. The following page contains several examples of potential Instagram content that portrays the agency’s creative approach to building awareness and real social “engagement” through the relationship-building power of Instagram. We strongly believe that there is a place for Instagram in this public relations campaign. With the agency’s experience and past success in cultivating and growing Instagram followings, we know how to effectively implement a plan for the Study Abroad Office. This is much more
  • 22. [21]     than a fun, photo-based social network. It can help promote products and services, gain customer leads and generate conversions that lead to lasting consumer loyalty. Our social strategy for Instagram includes the following: • A weekly photo contest using the hashtag (#MotivationalMonday #TravelTuesday #WhereAreWeWednesday #ThinkingThursday #PhotoFriday #SightSeeingSaturday #SuitcaseSunday) • Showcasing Products and Services on Tuesdays and Fridays at peak times, as indicated via Instagram Insights (metrics applications). • Telling the business story through effective use of images and videos. • Posting to the profile page twice daily every day except Sunday each week. • Adding more pizzazz to photos by adding text overlays to approximately 40% of images. In addition, every photo posted will include and informative caption and an attention- grabbing headline. Whether we’re sharing tips, promoting a sale or just furthering the branding, followers will never miss the message with a professionally managed account.
  • 23. [22]     TACTIC: Media Kit Targeted Public: Mass Media Outlets Rationale: Media Kits are an effective tool that encompasses both digital and print to help publicize complex stories that could have newsworthy elements. Implementation: The agency will craft a complete media kit for the Murray State Education Abroad Office. The print version will consist of a two-pocket folder that contains: • Hard-copy news • News releases • Any current media advisories • Feature stories • A backgrounder • A Fact Sheet In digital form, the media kit materials will be saved on a DVD, including: • Backgrounder • Fact Sheet • News Releases • Digital Photos • Digital Brochure The overall goal of the media kit is to convey a cohesive message to all mass media contacts from editors to producers and reporters. The media kit represents the entire PR campaign for this
  • 24. [23]     organization, and all materials in the kit support the overall message. The Education Abroad Media Kit will be presented to all of the agency’s media contacts at: • The Murray State News • The Murray Ledger & Times • Racer Nation Information (blog) • The Paducah Sun • Murray Life Magazine, and more. The media kit offers a great opportunity to relay broad information to all news media outlets in the regions the IIS office serves. The media kit will help generate news coverage about the office, its programs and partners. Sample Design for the DVD Cover and Back Cover:
  • 25. [24]     Line-Item Budget Production of Media Kits $ 900. Special Event $ 2,500. Total: $ 3, 400.
  • 26. [25]     Timetable: January – December 2015 January 1- Re-establish social media pages 4- News Release #1 February 1- News Release #2 3-Send out media kit to mass media outlets 4- Send out media kit to faculty advisors March 1- News Release #3 15- Faculty event April 1- News release #4 May 2- News release #5 June 1- News Release #6               July 1- News Release #7 August 1- News Release #8 16- Send out media kit to mass media outlets September 1- News release #9 14- Faculty Event October 3- News Release #10 November 1- News Release #11 December 1- News Release #12
  • 27. [27]     Evaluative Measures Ensuring the client’s success is the primary mission of the agency. Measuring the effectiveness of the four tactics outlined will help determine if the overall campaign is successful and whether or not awareness and participation are increased. Special Events The agency will track the number attendees at each planned special event and conduct a post-event survey. Media Kits/News Releases The agency will monitor the media outlets that news releases were disseminated to and report the number of mass media hits, pickups and placements on a monthly basis. Social Media The agency will track the number of people who like the Facebook and Instagram pages of the client using built-in analytics and monitoring tool. The agency will also monitor the likes and comments on posts made on these accounts.
  • 28. [28]       Supporting Documents
  • 29. [29]     Pre-Campaign Survey Results    
  • 30. [30]          
  • 32. [32]     Competitive Analysis     One of the biggest competitors in the industry are third party providers, such as Bus2Alps and IES Study Abroad. Any student enrolled in a college or university are eligible to participate. The popularity of these providers has greatly increased over the past few years and they continue to grow. Other competitors include the churches in Murray. There are currently around 50 different churches and organizations on and off campus. A lot of these churches offer mission trips that allow students to go abroad. The final competitors are students who choose to travel independently, or with family, instead of applying to a program through the university.    
  • 33. [33]     S.W.O.T Analysis The Murray State University Education Abroad programs have many strengths and opportunities that we can work with at our agency. By using the already existing social media resources and multiple program opportunities, we hope to make the weaknesses such as cost concern and awareness ease for the students of MSU. Strengths   On  campus  representa-ves   Already  using  social  media  outreach   Students  currently  par-cipa-ng  in  the   programs  offered   Posi-ve  public  opinion   Weaknessess   Students  not  par-cipa-ng  share  a  common   mindset  that  the  program  is  too  expensive   Students  unaware  of  offices  in  Woods  Hall   There  is  not  enough  pubic  discussion  of  the   programs  on  campus   Opportuni2es   Mul-ple  op-ons  of  different  programs     Friendly  staff,  easy  to  work  with   Growing  social  media  outreach   Number  of  faculty  and  staff  involvement  on   the  rise   Interna-onal  opportuni-es  in  new  places   Threats   Financial  costs  for  students   Student  par-cipa-on   More  involvement  numbers  wanted  from   school  officials   Possible  future  cuts  in  funding   Less  teacher  par-cipa-on  in  certain   countries  
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