Media Coverage

University Communications serves as a liaison between Appalachian State University and the news media. The office promotes faculty research, student accomplishments and campuswide cultural and academic events open to the public, among other topics.

Appalachian Today

If you think your idea or story qualifies for Appalachian Today, email news@appstate.edu or contact UComm at 828-262-6156.

Media Releases

If you have a news item you think merits external media coverage, contact your communications liaison. They can provide direction and strategy for sharing your story through University Communications.

Story Criteria

To determine if your story might qualify for elevation to Appalachian Today, the university's news and events website, review this list of story criteria.

Event Promotion

Want to spread the word about your upcoming event? Learn more about how to promote your event.

Media inquiries or requests for interviews

Faculty and staff cannot speak to a university position or policy unless directed to do so. Should you be contacted regarding material or information outside your area of expertise, please alert your communications liaison and refer the request to University Communications at 828-262-6156. UComm will determine the best process for moving forward with next steps and will coordinate with your communications liaison.

Speakers Bureau

Find speakers bureau members' biographies, list of topics they can discuss, links to their research and more.

Media training

UComm will provide media training on request — even a short 15-minute session can help you prepare for an interview. Send training requests to Anna Oakes, oakesal@appstate.edu

Interview requests

For interviews or requests related to your area of expertise:

  • Notify your communications liaison.
  • Determine the reporter's deadline.
  • Ask what their story will be about and how it will be used.
  • If you are the appropriate expert, but not prepared to talk about the subject/issue, ask if you can return the reporter's call, but remain mindful of their deadline.
  • Identify a few key points you want to stress with the reporter, and repeat them during the interview.
  • If you have questions about how to respond to a reporter's request, contact University Communications for input.
  • Don't ask to see a draft of the reporter's article.
  • Assume everything you say is on the record, even when you think the interview has ended.
  • Alert your communications liaison and/or University Communications if an article about you, your research or accomplishments might appear in print or in broadcast news, and with which media outlet.
  • Photographers/videographers must have permission to take photographs or video in nonpublic areas of the university, (e.g., classrooms, residence hall rooms). Visit https://uc.appstate.edu/media/ for more information on film, photography and video guidelines.

Contact

If you have any questions or need assistance, please contact Anna Oakes, Media Relations Specialist, at oakesal@appstate.edu.