Goal 7: increase the impact and visibility of James Madison College, our students, faculty and alumni at MSU — across the state, in the U.S. and around the world.
Objectives
Build a strong and consistent JMC brand.
Promote inclusive excellence.
Leverage JMC’s 10,000 alums and friends to raise the college’s profile.
Strategy 1.1 & 1.2: Communications office will develop and implement a workshop for faculty and staff to teach consistent brand identification practices. Communications office will implement training for those interested in greater public engagement with the media (interviews, op-eds, etc.).
Faculty event held in March 2024. Communications manager will host another event in AY 25-26 if there is adequate interest from faculty and staff.
In Fall 2025 Semester, JMC faculty and staff were offered the opportunity to participate in University Communications & Marketing media training workshops.
Strategy 1.3: Dean’s office will implement an annual state of the college report.
Dean Cameron Thies shared a state of the college report in Spring 2025 at a college assembled meeting on April 11 and held a second event open to the entire JMC community on April 16, 2025.
2026 events will be scheduled in the Spring 2026 Semester.
Strategy 2.1: Ensure news from the college is representative of our community in various dimensions.
Ongoing initiative of JMC's Communications Manager, including content on JMC's website, social media platforms and recruitment materials.
Strategy 2.2: Ensure images are updated regularly and truly reflect the college.
In Summer 2025, JMC's website was migrated to a new platform. During the migration process, all web images were reviewed and replaced with updated content where appropriate.
Strategy 2.3: Ensure that many diverse and representative voices are published and heard in college media.
Ongoing initiative of JMC's Communications Manager, including content on JMC's website, social media platforms and recruitment materials.
Strategy 3.2: In collaboration with the college community, the development office will increase engagement with alumni, ask for and raise significant private financial support to advance the college and its worthy programs.
The JMC Alumni Association now includes a Fundraising Committee, currently chaired by Bill Beekman (JMCD '89). The Alumni Association will work closely with JMC Development Office on the upcoming Comprehensive Campaign.
Strategy 3.1: Develop a network of alumni with JMCAA Board leadership that expands the reach of JMC communications, provides new and diverse content, and increases knowledge and awareness with JMC stakeholders.
Communications Manager and Alumni Coordinator are collaborating with Alumni Association to develop strategy around highlighting both alumni and college accomplishments.