Communications efforts prompt name changes for three departments

The university has made several significant steps in its effort to implement a strategic communications plan, which includes the renaming of three departments to better reflect their roles on campus.

“In her first six months as vice president for University Communications, Jennifer Murray has completed the important first step of developing a strategic communications framework from which a strategic communications plan is being built and will be implemented,” said President Ann Weaver Hart. “A carefully planned and executed communications plan to our internal and external audiences will advance the mission and vision of the university as outlined in the Academic Plan and is especially important as we plan for a new capital campaign.”

University Relations, the umbrella office for University Publications, Public Programs and Events, and the News Bureau, now is the Office of University Communications and Marketing.

“Our goal is to create a distinct identity for the university and position it as a leading student-centered research university,” Murray said. “University Communications and Marketing also will support goals for faculty and student retention and recruitment, advancement and development, engagement and outreach in a more integrated and proactive way.”

University Publications is now known as Editorial and Creative Services, and is responsible for all printed materials, the design of the university Web site, and the development of a comprehensive branding and graphic standards manual.

Public Programs and Events has been renamed Presidential Events and Programs, in order to more accurately identify its important emphasis on the development and execution of programs and events that have an impact on the public image and reputation of UNH.

The News Bureau now is Media Relations, with an increased emphasis on proactive national media outreach that also will be effective with regional and statewide media. Media Relations will be more proactive in dealing with crisis communications management.

“The strategic communications opportunities ahead of us offer a fresh approach, with new partnerships and collaboration across colleges, schools and departments,” Hart said.

The strategic communications plan will be finalized in mid-February.