University of Nebraska–Lincoln

Communications and Information Technology (CIT)

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News and Photography

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The professional communicators in CIT News have extensive experience in news reporting, media relations and photography. We prepare news releases and news photos, consult on the best strategies for getting your information to the public through the media, work with state and national media. We also offer media and news training, prepare monthly news packets for extension educators to use, provide photography support to the Institute, coordinate with other communicators through IANR and the university system, and develop other communications products for IANR extension, research and teaching. From news release preparation and advice on working with the media to photography, we assess your needs and recommend the most effective approach.


News releases

  • Advance stories about programs or activities that invite public participation.
  • Feature stories about extension, research and teaching programs.
  • Educational and “news-you-can-use” stories that share university expertise with Nebraskans when they need objective information to improve or protect their families, lives and livelihood. Whether it’s dealing with the latest crop pest or livestock disease, cleaning up after a flood or contending with restricted water supplies, IANR News stories connect with Nebraskans through the media.

What to prepare for a quick action

When requesting a news release announcing an upcoming meeting or event, please supply a brochure, Web address, letter of invitation or other material that includes the basic information about the event. This information should include: who the event is for or who is your target audience, where and when it is, what the name is, why its being held and what participants will learn, and how people can register, including fees and signup deadlines. You don't need to write a news release before contacting us. We know what the media needs and we'll be happy to prepare a release and check it with you for accuracy.

 

Media pitches and advisories

Media pitches and advisories can be effective tools for letting reporters know of IANR activities. They are used selectively to alert reporters to a possible IANR story or to encourage media coverage of a specific activity, especially when a general news release is not appropriate. Reporters are always looking for story ideas and IANR has many good stories to tell. Contact  IANR News and Photography to discuss the best way to get your information to the media. We may decide that offering a story idea, or pitch,  to a specific reporter who we know is interested in your subject area is the best tactic. A media advisory can be a good way to let reporters know they are welcome to attend and cover an event or demonstration that is not formally open to the public.  We can prepare and distribute advisories for you if we mutually agree that’s the best communications tool.

Communications consulting

We can help you think through the best tools to use to reach the public through the media and how to work effectively with reporters.

Training

Our staff can share their expertise with yours on media relations, news writing, science communications, photography, impact writing and more.

Photography

Our professional photographer takes news and feature photos of IANR extension, research and teaching programs and activities at no charge; other photography services are available for a fee. 

Impact writing

Our writers work with administration, faculty and staff to share the story of how IANR programs make a difference in Nebraskans’ lives.