From directors of communications who lead departments and manage staff to administrative personnel tasked with communications and marketing as part of their expanded job descriptions, there are more than 125 staff members across the University system who contribute to communications and marketing.

Each month, the Office of University Communications leads a meeting — a Communications Council — that brings together this collective to discuss the latest topics and trends in communications and marketing. 

Participants are encouraged to propose agenda topics, bring ideas, ask questions and share best practices and stories of success. Recent topics have included regular updates on the University’s branding, marks and colors; best practices for photography and social media; industry conferences; and communications personnel updates. 

“The Communications Council has been a great way to be more transparent in our work and to focus on the core of our collective expertise — which is communications — to promote Pitt,” said Vice Chancellor for University Communications and Marketing Ellen Moran.

“As a school-based communicator, I appreciate having the opportunity to network with colleagues from other schools and campuses, learn about new resources being rolled out by University Communications, and share experiences and best practices,” said Carol Mullen, director of communications and undergraduate recruitment in the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences. “I’ve been especially grateful for the regular meetings during this time of transition with the University’s new branding initiatives. At a large institution, it can be easy to stay locked in our various silos, but the Communications Council helps to break down those walls and get us all talking to each other. I learn something new during every meeting.”

While most of the monthly meetings use the Zoom online platform, in-person meetings are held quarterly and allow for valuable face-to-face networking. Guest presenters have joined to share details about key initiatives and campaigns from various University schools and departments like the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences, Pitt Commons and the Innovation Institute.

If you’re interested in joining the Communications Council for monthly meetings and email communications, email Lola Johnson at lolaj@pitt.edu.