Message from the chair - December 2013

Hello communicators!

There's a lot going on. All the time. The close of 2013 is near. So near, people. I mean, it's December, it's snowing and everything. Ever wish you could just press pause?

Communications need breathing room. The "white space" in design. The time to take stock of what you've done and plan for what's next, to focus on what needs to be done and you know, do it. The creative brain time to read an article, attend a program, watch a video (try this from artist Jeff Scher), sketch or jot or type ideas. 

Before 2013 ends and a new year begins, while you are go-go-go, go ahead when you need it to be a strong communicator (and happy human) and: press pause.

Up for some reflecting and thoughtful perspective offering? Take the opportunity to give feedback on two U-wide communications initiatives:

• News on the U portal has moved forward since the helpful Communicators Forum program in October, a rough draft is available and accepting feedback in December.
• Web header and footer: University Relations is providing an opportunity for input on changes that will need to be made to the U header and footer required on all University of Minnesota websites; share your input on this short survey by Dec. 9.

There's a lot going on with your Communicators Forum board and committees, too, so we'll take that moment to take stock. Here's some of what we've been up to in programs:

• Thanks to November's program, more communicators are ready for an emergency. Maybe you missed the program, but you didn't miss out! Find the handout and recording from the most recent program emergency preparedness.
• Monthly Mixer at the Campus Club is this Thursday, Dec. 5, 3:30-5:30 p.m., RSVP here. Save the date for the next one: Jan. 2. The nachos will be waiting!
• Work with or interested in events planning? The Events Circle officially kicks off this month with a Dec. 9 program on working with University Dining Services. (And events planners know the value of an RSVP -- food will be served, space limited.)

...and in other news:

• Awards alert: Look for Maroon and Gold Awards information to be announced early in 2014, including a new "innovator" category; submission process will be in March.
• Our email list transitioned to a Google Group; email the member community at FORUM-C@umn.edu
• We'll be doing a member drive in January and February to share the benefits of joining; a presence at new employee orientation continues throughout the year.
• In the works: We've connected with communicators at Crookston, Duluth, Morris, and Rochester campuses to explore opportunities beyond the Twin Cities and better serve their needs, and have started plans to revise the Communicators Forum website--stay tuned!
• Planning has picked up for the May 28 member appreciation event (Weisman) and June 19 annual conference (Carlson).

Can't make a monthly program? They are recorded for your post-event viewing pleasure, find recordings on the events page.

Have a great rest of 2013, communicators!

Rebecca Noran, chair, Communicators Forum, 2013-14 

Member profile: Adam Overland

Editor/Writer, University Relations Marketing Communications and Creative Services

Started working at the University in April 2008

UMCF member since 2008

When asked if we can find Adam online, he had this to say:
There are far better things to find online than me. Start with this YouTube video.

Adam was nominated by Andria Waclawski who appreciates his sense of humor and the energy he brings to the table.

What brought you to your current job?
 
For starters, a tremendous boredom with my last job. I'd begun post-college life by working for an airline in Minneapolis as a ramp-agent, aka those guys with the orange wands who direct aircraft and load your luggage. To be clear--I loved that job. The people, the airplanes, the cheese-curd eating contests (I ate 93 in 60 minutes*)...but two years in, a communications position opened up and I began writing and editing the company's newsletter. That was great for about a year, but the challenge wasn't there.
 
What excites you about working at the University and for Creative Services?

University Relations is packed with people who a) care about their work/the U of M at a level I've never seen in previous work; b) are talented in ways that consistently amaze me; and c) love to go to happy hours.
 
What advice do you have for communicators at the University of Minnesota?
 
Take classes. There's no better way to get to know the U than from inside the core.

Your hometown and the first place you lived after leaving your hometown?
Sioux Falls, SD (aka "The Big City")
Moved to Brookings, SD and shortly thereafter, to Anchorage, AK
 
What do you do for fun?   
Landscape/stone work, exercise, and anything outdoors.
 
What is your dream job (besides the one you have!)?
I'm torn. If I had a better body I think I would like to build rock patios, gardens, walls, etc. But alas, my back and knees weren't made for a lifetime of it. So I'm left with ink to make my mark, and I feel pretty good about that.
 
Motto or personal mantra:
"The rich get Richard, and the poor get Phil."

I'm happiest when:
I'm reading a good book in the sunshine.
 
Favorite book/author?  
Favorite authors via acronym-soup: KV, HST, and DFW
 
Favorite food and drink?
Steak and red wine.
 
Favorite musician or band?
Once upon a time it was Ween. I credit them with giving me a keen sense for the absurd. Today I don't play favorites.
 
Favorite place on Earth?
Looking down on it from an airplane.
 
People may be surprised to know:
That I can almost certainly bench press more than you, and that this is incredibly important information.
 
If I could do it all over again, I would:
Have been born with special powers. Specifically, I would have had a genetic mutation that made my bone density equivalent to steal, my muscle strength that of a bear, and with a built-in retractable cape.
 
Pet peeves:
Pay your bills on time.
 
Before I die, I would like to:
Go to outer space. I'm serious. I'm saving hard for it.

Member profile: Colleen Ware

Web editor, College of Liberal Arts (CLA) Office of Communication

Started at the University in December 1996 with CLA Student Services and left in 2003. Colleen came back to CLA in November 2006.

Colleen was nominated by Carrie Van Hallgren because "she knows so much about the U and is so versatile in that knowledge. I call on her for advice for all kinds of things. She always has time for my questions (or at least she pretends to!) and she always has such wise answers."

What is your best/more amusing U-related memory?
I met my husband in my German class when I was a student here. (Yes, to me German is the language of love.) He was absent the first day of class, and I remember thinking, "That loser's gonna lose his place in class." Good thing for me that he didn't.

What is your favorite place on campus?
I have many. I loved walking through the foyer of Northrop Auditorium (when it was open, of course), and Folwell Hall with its updates is wonderful. Walking into Rarig Center always gives me a thrill because it smells the same as it did when I was completing my theatre arts minor as an undergrad. I think our campus is beautiful. (Stuff it, Travel + Leisure!)

What do you consider to be a best kept secret about the U?
University Theatre and University Opera productions! Our students are amazingly talented. Go see them! Plus the tickets are so affordable. Tickets and events website

Member profile: Todd Reubold

Director of Communications / Ensia Director, Institute on the Environment

Started at the University of Minnesota in 2005 and has been in his current role since September 2007.

Todd was nominated by Andria Waclawski who has gotten to know Todd and thinks he has a great story to tell. Andria adds that he is leading a solid team at the Institute on the Environment and respects what they have built.

Connect with Todd online
Twitter: @treubold

What is your favorite aspect of your job?
The people I work with! They're all incredibly creative, professional and committed to making the world a better place. Plus they're really great people, too. Together we've been able to produce some wonderful work in support of the U's Institute on the Environment.
 

Tell us about one of the coolest projects you've worked on for your job at the U?
One of the coolest projects I've worked on is probably the launch of Ensia - a magazine and events series showcasing solutions to the Earth's biggest environmental challenges. Through Ensia we've been able to raise the profile of the Institute on the Environment with our core audience while also connecting with new environmental leaders around the world.  

What do you consider to be a best kept secret about the U?
The St. Paul campus! It's quiet, the trees are beautiful, parking is easy, the ice cream is fresh, the gardens are gorgeous and each morning we enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of livestock. What could be better?!

I'm happiest when:
I'm skiing down a blue or black run high in the mountains right after a new snowfall. Especially if the ski run is at Whistler, Big Sky, Breckenridge or Vail. Pure bliss!

People may be surprised to know:
I've been playing the drums since I was ten and I spent most of my 20's touring the country with my band while signed to an Indie label.

If I could do it all over again, I would:
Start playing tennis at the age of two and win a Grand Slam by 23. (Guess I'll just have to settle for hopefully going to a Grand Slam tennis tournament someday!)

Member profile: Carrie Van Hallgren

Producing Director for Theatre Arts & Dance

Started at the University of Minnesota in July 2012

UMCF member since Fall 2012

Carrie was nominated by Kelly O'Brien who thinks we'll all be envious of her job promoting University Theatre Arts & Dance and the Showboat.

Connect with University Theatre Arts & Dance and the Showboat online:
facebook.com/UMTAD
twitter.com/UMTAD
twitter.com/UMShowboat

What excites you about working at the University of Minnesota and for Theatre Arts & Dance?
The Twin Cities is an amazing city for theatre and dance. Our artists are revered locally, nationally, and internationally. Most of those Twin Cities-based theatre and dance artists are working with us, in some form of another. They are teaching and mentoring our students, they are directing, choreographing, designing, and writing for us and with us.

What is your favorite accomplishment at the U, so far?  
This summer we entertained 12,800 audience members on the University of Minnesota Centennial Showboat, a five year high for us, the largest number since the the economy tanked in 2008. The student performers on the boat this summer we extraordinary. I was honored to be working with them.

What is your favorite place on campus?      
Rarig Center. The big concrete bunker is buzzing with art-making 24 hours a day. In every nook and cranny a student or faculty member is creating a scene, a design, or a performance that will move you or shock you.

Your hometown and the first place you lived after leaving your hometown?
My hometown is Platteville, WI. I lived there for 18 years and then moved to Davidson, NC for college.

The Top 3 highlights of my life:  
Aside from wedding my husband and the birth of my two kids, I had the opportunity to work on projects with Royal Shakespeare Company, Manhattan Theatre Club, and Yale Rep as a young professional.

People may be surprised to know:  
My husband put his career in public radio on hold to be a stay at home dad with our two kids.  And he used to work for Ira Glass, so that is really saying something.

Member Profile: Chuck Tombarge

Director of Public Relations/University Relations

Started at the University of Minnesota in January 2012

UMCF member since 2012

Chuck was nominated by Kelly O'Brien who admires him for managing the University's reputation and believes we should all have a deeper appreciation for what that takes.




Connect with Chuck online:
Twitter: @ctombarge
Facebook: facebook.com/chuck.tombarge
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chucktombarge

What brought you to your current job?
I was seeking a change after 7.5 years doing public affairs agency work. Specifically, I wanted to work for a single, mission-driven organization. A former colleague who was aware of changes in University Relations suggested I watch for this position posting. She believed the position would be in the sweet spot of my media, public organization communications and public affairs experience. I applied and everything fell into place. It was a great fit.

What is your favorite aspect of your job?
I love the variety. There is always something new, exciting -- and challenging -- happening at the U. It also feels like I'm experiencing college all over again. Having graduated from a private, liberal arts university (the University of St. Thomas), my college experience was much different than what is a Big Ten experience. I'm really enjoying the Big Ten, research, land-grant university experience.
 
What excites you about working at the U and for University Relations?
University Relations is incredibly fun because we touch all aspects of what the U does, and we have an opportunity to work with colleagues in all capacities across the U of M system. I enjoy supporting and helping to amplify the amazing things that happen on all of our campuses every day.

What is your favorite accomplishment at the U, so far?
Building a News Service team that pours its heart and soul into everything it does. We are well equipped to support our colleagues across the system and when we misstep, we are usually the first to point it out and find a solution to correct the situation. The News Service -- and everyone in U Relations and Gov Relations -- truly work as a team and have each others' backs. I'm proud to work among such great professionals.

What advice do you have for communicators at the University of Minnesota?
Be willing to ask for help and tap each others' expertise when you need to. There is a wealth of experience and unique expertise among the U's communicators. And the collegial and collaborative atmosphere among communicators is second to none.

Tell us about one of the coolest projects you've worked on for your job at the U?
Though I'm at arms length from it, I've enjoyed my involvement in and watching the Discover/new UMNews web site come together. It will be one of the most visible representations of how U Relations and the News Service are approaching media relations and communications in a new way. Rather than being bound by our own structures and tools (e.g. a press release vs. a web site story vs. a media advisory), the site will present all great stories as great content. That will make the site seamless for visitors and should allow all of the communicators involved a more effective way to achieve our common goal of effectively telling the U's story.

What is your best/more amusing U-related memory?
The team trips to the Big Ten News Directors conferences in Nebraska and Wisconsin with the U's News Service team.

What is your favorite place on campus?  
I really like the St. Paul campus, despite the limited amount of time I'm able to spend there. The green, open space makes it feel like a retreat in the city.  

What do you consider to be a best kept secret about the U?
That it truly is a world-class University. Growing up in Minnesota, the U wasn't looked to as a place that provides a great education, a personal student experience and the location of life-changing research. I think Minnesotans and others are beginning to catch on, but there is more work to do.

Your hometown and the first place you lived after leaving your hometown?
St. Anthony Village, MN. My first job out of college was as a reporter for the Austin Daily Herald in Austin, MN.

What do you do for fun?   
Travel and being outdoors in fall.

If I could do it all over again, I would:
Study abroad in college.

Member profile: Andria Waclawski

Creative Services Lead for the Office of the VP for Research

Started at the University of Minnesota in September 2006

UMCF member since 2006

Andria was nominated by Kelly O'Brien who is excited to hear more about Andria being a Google Glass beta tester.

Connect with Andria online:
Twitter: @SoBatman
Facebook: facebook.com/word.srsly
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/heyandria/
Personal website: heyandria.com   

What is your favorite aspect of your job?
My job is super varied (graphic design, photography, strategy, web design, and more) and has changed over the years, but getting out to take photos/interview researchers, meet their students, and learn about their work has been a constant perk. Bonus: Working for a University-wide office means I get to work with people in all the various colleges/units. There is so much going on here; it's staggering and inspiring and intimidating all at once.

What advice do you have for communicators at the University of Minnesota?
It's a big place and we've got a lot of work to do to get the word out. The most important lesson that I've learned is to see where you can partner and coordinate with fellow communicators to get the most out of every story and ultimately deliver a more consistent, informed message to your audience. It also doesn't hurt that this can help dodge the dreaded Duplication of Effort.

Tell us about one of the coolest projects you've worked on for your job at the U?   
Right now, I'm working on a special project called U of M Explorer (umnexplorer.com). I was selected by Google to join their Glass Explorers program--sort of an alpha test for their new wearable technology platform--and I've been using Google Glass to bring a new perspective to the storytelling I do on behalf of the U of M. It's been a unique experience to say the least and I'm excited to do more with it.

(Want to join Andria in her umnexplorer.com adventures w/@googleglass? Click here for more information.) 

My favorites:
Book/author:
Either the bizarre J-Pod by Douglas Coupland or the Scott Pilgrim series by Bryan Lee O'Malley.

Website:
YouTube. Come for the cute animals, stay for the PBS Idea Channel, Crash Course, Mental Floss, and more.   

Source of inspiration: 
HOW Magazine, Pinterest, and being behind my camera (be it my Nikon or iPhone). 

Favorite word and word that annoys me:
Dude and twee, respectively.

Food and drink:
I am a fool for toast with butter and Tupelo honey and a hot cup of peppermint tea.

TV show and movie:
I tried to answer this question for 15 minutes. If anyone wants to go talk movies and tv with me, let me know. I love City Lights and The Wire just as much as I love Galaxy Quest and Fawlty Towers.

Musician or band:
This is just as hard to answer as the previous one, but I can say that I often turn to Spotify genre stations based on David Bowie, The Beastie Boys, and Nina Simone.

Place on Earth:
So far Bogotá my most special destination, since I got to explore my Colombian heritage (the music, the food, the art, the lifestyle, the natural landscapes). 

The Top 3 highlights of my life:

• Going to Comic Con International in San Diego
• Seeing a Shakespeare play at the Globe Theater in London
• That one time Hugh Jackman touched my hand

People may be surprised to know:
You can act as your own marriage officiant in Colorado. I know, because I eloped there almost two years ago and married my best friend at the Denver Museum of Nature & Science. Related fun fact: You can simply show up at a museum in a wedding dress, take a bunch of pictures, and get married for the price of a regular admission.

Communicators Forum Monthly Mixer

Thursday, November 7, 3:30-5:30 p.m. - Campus Club, Coffman Union

There's no program, just networking, and you don't need to a UMCF or Campus Club member to attend. Starting in November, these will be held on the first Thursday of every month. Snacks are provided, drinks on your own.

Google Groups

Recently, UMCF transitioned our email list management tool from Listserv to Google Groups. This migration greatly increases the toolset to manage our email list. Added functionality includes options of reading and posting messages online or via email as well as a fully searchable archive of our group's messages. 

As a member of our email list, you can now unsubscribe from the group by going to Google Groups. You will also be able to manage how you want to receive messages from this group via the "Edit my membership" link on the group web page. 

If you wish to send an email to the entire Forum, please use the FORUM-C@umn.edu email address. To add yourself to the UMCF Google Group, click here.

Want a say in upcoming programs? Take this survey today!

Have you taken our survey? The UMCF Programs Committee wants to know what kind of programming you would like for 2013-2014. Take our survey today! 

Message from the chair

Hello communicators!

There's a Communicators Forum website, a blog, regular events, social media, and now a Google Group. So why do we have a newsletter?

To share highlights of what's happening in one juicy, scannable email: upcoming opportunities to engage, what's new on the blog, and what the board and committees are planning. We want to keep you in the know, and provide an easy way for you to share with others. Feel welcome to forward this newsletter to colleagues to let them know about the Forum.

So... what's happening with the Forum board and committees?

--The technology committee has updated the FORUM-C listserv to a Google Group, so you can control your own settings and reference past posts.

--The program committee has planned several programs -- including kicking something off this month for the Events Circle -- and is looking ahead for the year. Want a say in what programs happen? Provide your input on this survey by Wednesday, October 9.

--The marketing and promotions committee has been representing the Communicators Forum at the U's new employee orientation, and has started planning for the member appreciation event and awards celebration this spring.

--The conference committee had their first meeting to plan this year's conference: Craft the future, June 19, 2014.

--The awards committee is looking at revising categories this year to better align with the type of work communicators are doing these days.

--And more: Member profiles on the blog every month, special brownbag Oct. 24 on the U's new "portal," reaching out to system campus communicators to better engage, exploring an upgrade of the Communicators Forum website, design concept for the Craft the future theme, and of course updates on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and the blog. 

And that's just off the top of my head! If you want to know more or get involved, reach out to the related contact on the board of directors. 

I hope to see you at an upcoming program and your tiny picture on Google Group messages. And, if you are looking for the place to be, where it is truly at, look no further than the next nacho-fueled monthly mixer on Thursday, November 7, 3:30-5:30 p.m. at the Campus Club.

Rebecca Noran, chair, Communicators Forum, 2013-14

Member profile: Matt Tveter

Matt Tveter
Communications/Organizational Effectiveness Coordinator in Academic Support Resources

Started at the University of Minnesota on October 29, 2012

UMCF member since 2012

Matt was nominated by Kess Knight who had this to say: Matt's energy is contagious. He has a genuine passion for the communications field and it shows through his work. He joined the UMCF Awards Committee this year and will be a great contributor to the Forum.

Connect with Matt online:
http://www.linkedin.com/in/matttveter

What brought you to your current job?
I spent about 7 years working for a public school district in the Northwest metro and a few years before that teaching abroad, so I've always worked in education. I enjoy working for Academic Support Resources because I like knowing that we help keep the entire University running.


What is your favorite aspect of your job?


Working with our team, half of which is on the Communicators Forum board.



What excites you about working at the University and for Academic Support Resources?


I think that spreading knowledge and discovering new things are the most exciting things a person can do, so I'm proud to work for an organization that is devoted to those pursuits.



What is your best U-related memory?


I received both my Undergraduate and Graduate degrees from the U, and my dad went here when I was younger, so I often get déjà vu when walking around campus. My favorite memories are of the times I spent on campus with my wife, long before we were married.



What do you do for fun?


Read, write, go to concerts, museums, go camping, take kids to zoo.



What is your dream job (besides the one you have!)?


Baseball manager.



Motto or personal mantra:


Never give up.


The Top 3 highlights of my life:


My two kids being born, getting married. Non cheesy highlight: living and traveling in Europe and Asia.



People may be surprised to know:


I am certified as both a reverend and as a Thai masseuse.



Pet peeves:


When someone tells me that one of my habits is one of their pet peeves.

Member profile: Kelly O'Brien

Kelly O'Brien, Past UMCF Chair (2011-12)
Public Relations/Communications Consultant in the College of Liberal Arts
Started at the University of Minnesota in 2003
UMCF member since 2003

Kelly was nominated by Rebecca Noran who had this to say: Kelly is a
highly skilled communicator and engaged community leader. She has
provided exceptional service to the Communicators Forum over the years:
as chair in 2011-12, serving 5 years on the board (at large director,
co-chair of programs, chair-elect, chair, chair emerita), and prior to
that serving 3 years on committees (2 on conference, 1 on programs).

Photo: Kelly O'Brien in the Governor's office at the Minnesota Capitol. Photo by Lisa Miller, CLA

Connect with Kelly online:
http://www.linkedin.com/in/kellymobrien

What brought you to your current job?
My professional background is in arts administration, particularly marketing and communications. I initially came to the College of Liberal Arts (CLA) to do marketing and PR for the West Bank Arts Quarter. It was really fun to work to raise the profile of our fantastic arts departments here, and to collaborate with stellar communications professionals, whom many of you may remember (Jen Keavy, Justin Christy, Christopher James). Alas, after a few years the project was unfunded and my efforts were folded into the greater efforts for CLA, which has turned out to be really amazing too.
 
What excites you about working at the University and the College of Liberal Arts?
I love to learn and I want my work to support a greater good. I get both of those working in CLA. My work brings me into contact with faculty who are making remarkable discoveries, publishing fascinating work, and teaching surprising ideas. I learn something new all the time. We have centers in CLA that are doing important work about human rights, so when I have an effort to work with them I feel I am also helping to make the world a slightly better place. And the students are just humbling. Really. I am an alumna of the U and I wonder if I would be able to get into college here if I applied today.

Tell us about one of the coolest projects you've worked on for your job at the U?   
Sometimes I think if I could do only one kind of project it would be building remodels. I love historic architecture, political campaigns, and the smell of fresh lumber, and that's the space where they all converge. I was lucky to get to do one of these for Folwell Hall.

I have experience working on political campaigns and doing advocacy work with Minnesota Citizens for the Arts (an amazing organization). So when it was time for Folwell Hall to be fully remodeled, in 2008, CLA called on me to use my experience to design a grassroots advocacy campaign to get the Minnesota Legislature and Governor Tim Pawlenty to support bonding money for the project. I worked with the team in the U's Government Relations office and rallied students, faculty, and alumni to contact their legislators and the governor to support the project. Things were going well, but due to some political maneuvering (duh), Folwell got dropped from the University's request that year. But in 2010, the project was back as the top building project in the U's request. We worked just as hard, if not harder, that year; in fact, more contacts to legislators were made on behalf of Folwell than for the University request as a whole.

The project was funded that year and gutting and remodeling commenced over the next 15 months or so. I was allowed to visit the building many times while it was under construction, and I documented the project on Facebook and the campaign web site. I cannot even begin to describe how much I love going into buildings under construction. So this was a dream project for me! And of course, we reopened in September 2011 with a beautiful, historic classroom building that better serves student needs and the four language/culture departments housed there.

What do you do for fun?  
Bar trivia (my team is called Gorilla Panic); DFL politics; normal girl-things like cooking, gardening, knitting; visiting outsider art environments like the Forevertron; hiking and snowshoeing.

What is your motto or personal mantra?
"The road to hell is paved with good intentions." I use this to remind myself that it's not enough that you meant to do well--you have to actually make it happen.

What are some of your favorites?
Favorite book/author and paper vs. e-book 
Paper, absolutely. I love Ian McEwan, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, Maira Kalman, Etgar Keret (met him on campus last year!!), so many others. I am reading Louise Erdrich's The Round House right now because it is CLA's common reading for our first-year students this year, and it is, I think, her best novel ever. I can't believe how much I am loving this book.

If I could recommend two books for all UMCF members to read, they would be Content Strategy for the Web (2nd ed.) by Kristina Halvorson and Melissa Rach, and Content Everywhere: Strategy and Structure for Future-Ready Content by Sarah Boettcher-Wachter.

Favorite source of inspiration   
If I'm at work and need to clear my head and refresh my thinking, I either walk to the Weisman and pick a gallery, or walk across the river on the #9 Bridge behind Educational Sciences. I look at the Mississippi River every day. I can't believe I work next to it! If I'm at home, I might just look at Pinterest for 10 minutes.

Favorite food and drink?
Smoked salmon, caviar, Irish whisky, bubbly water. I love this Swedish fish roe spread in a tube, Kalles. IKEA sells their own generic version, you should try it.

Monthly mixers start this week -- come and bring a friend!

Don't forget that we are starting a regular social hour called the UMCF Monthly Mixer, and the first one will be this Thursday, Sept. 26.

There's no program, just networking, and you don't need to a UMCF or Campus Club member to attend. Starting in November, these will be held on the first Thursday of every month. Snacks are provided, drinks on your own.

Please let us know if you can come, so we can order enough nachos:
Register now.

--Ann Nordby, UMCF board

Board member profile: Kate Sophia

Kate Sophia, UMCF chair emerita

Student Communications Lead for the Enterprise Systems Upgrade Program

Academic Support Resources

ksophia@umn.edu      




About my role on the UMCF board:

I provide a bit of continuity and organizational memory and get to work on a little project of my own. This year I'll be focusing on how we communicate with the student population and how we can improve that.




About my role at the University:

I currently work in Academic Support Resources as the Student Communications Lead for the Enterprise Systems Upgrade Program. That means I do a lot of coordination and collaboration to support and spread the word of the Student Project (admissions, financial aid, SEVIS, student finance, and student records). The project kicked off in fall 2012 and will wrap up in fall 2014. It's been an amazing opportunity to understand the complexity of the work of those units and to work side-by-side with the incredible staff within him.

Prior to my work in ASR, I worked in the Global Programs and Strategy Alliance (in the China Center and Confucius Institute) and in the Office of Information Technology. December 2013 marks my 9th anniversary working at the University and it's still one of the most energizing places to be.

Board member profile: Serena Wright

Serena Wright, UMCF Conference Chair

Director of Events

College of Education and Human Development Office of Communications

wrigh103@umn.edu

612-624-0430

About my role at the University
I am currently Director of Events for the College of Education and Human Development Office of Communications. I started at the University of Minnesota in 2000.

Favorite place on campus:
Overlooking Northrop mall from the Campus Club Terrace.

What I like about working at the U:
I love engaging with our students, staff, and faculty. Creating an environment where all of these constituency groups have a sense of community, feel safe, respected, and know there is a place that they can call there home away from home. I look forward to Fall semester when all of the campus is a "buzz" with excitement.

Students are my first priority at the college and making sure that our college and the dean shines in the absolute best light. I think of myself as an ambassador of CEHD.

A person at the U whom I admire:
I have several people that I admire and two of them have retired, but remain a tremendous force and support in my life. Josie Johnson (former Regent and civil rights activist, extraordinary gifted woman) and Jeanne Lupton (former dean of General College and a trailblazer).

Both of these women were firsts at everything they did. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to be first when you are not sure the others will follow. I have always admired that in both of them. My mother was the same and I have in many situations that I have been the first. Speaking up for others who cannot speak for themselves. It is also an attribute that I'm most proud of too.

Some of the coolest projects I've worked on at the U:
Well this is difficult for me because there are so many cool projects that I've have and continue to work on at the U. Each project had its own uniqueness. Situations were different for all of them.

For the 30th Anniversary for the MLK Concert sponsored by the Office of Equity and Diversity and the School of Music I was hired to plan that event.

Two years later I was asked to emcee this event. Stepping outside of my comfort zone but was up for the challenge and was surprised that I enjoyed it as much as I did.

Also, having less than 5 weeks to plan the grand opening for UROC, Urban Research Outreach Center. Dr. Robert Jones asked me to step in an take over and it was an absolute AMAZING event. His reputation was on the line because this was a partnership that took 5 years in the making between the University and the Northside of Minneapolis. The attendees included, the mayor of Mpls RT Rybak, the Board of Regents, legislative representatives, internal and external communities, the media, (TV, radio, newspapers, etc). Now that I think of this, it truly was a remarkable event with over 800 attendees who walk through the doors.

More about Serena

My hometown:
Plainfield, New Jersey | view it on a map

Accomplishments I'm most proud of:
Making the transition from New Jersey and New York City to Minneapolis. Very different places, different culture, but making a home for me and my husband, having some amazing friends, I'm like a tree. I planted myself, my roots took hold, my branches always expanding and reaching up and out to the sky and my leaves continue to grow and I always have flowers blooming. I have people in my life who have nurtured me from the time I step foot on Minnesota soil. This is a very good thing!!!! I have an amazing life in Minneapolis.

Paper book or e-book:
Paper
 
Favorite source of inspiration:
Elders in a community. In particular women elders.

Favorite words:
Respect and courage

Word that makes you cringe:
When people are uncouth.

What I do for fun:
I love to do the following: play tennis weekly, frequent the theatre (plays), listen to "old school" and jazz music.

Love to dance and sing. Love to cook and entertain friends at home. Lover of great food and wines.

Travel, travel, travel anywhere and everywhere with my husband, family, and friends. Antique shopping, love old movies of all genres.

Fashion has always been a part of my life and creating my own style is important to me. Love television programs related to animals...my favorite which are Silverback gorillas and horses. Love science and nature shows.

Love to be surrounded by beautiful things so I have my doll collection in my office. Flowers on my desk and home and lovely aromatic scents. I also have an extensive perfume bottle collection. Both the dolls and perfume bottles have been acquired from my travels and gifts from around the world.

I most enjoy spending time with women elders. They have an amazing amount of wisdom and are generous in spirit. I just love them!!!!!!!!!!! I love volunteering.

My dream jobs (besides the one I have!):
To plan events and travel with Oprah Winfrey. To play professional tennis with Serena Williams.

Board member profile: Ann Nordby

Ann Nordby, UMCF Awards Committee Co-Chair
Web manager

Extension Center for Youth Development
   
Became a member of UMCF: 2007

About my role on the UMCF board:
This is my second year as co-chair of the awards committee, together with Kris Junker. I was also on the programs committee for five years previously.
We are in charge of recognizing the best communications work done across the U in a given year. That is a great learning experience for my own work. My favorite part is working with the judges, who come from outside the U, and learning what they think is excellent. Each year there are 5 judges, including one student, and last year one of the sharpest judges was our student judge.


Some great Forum memories:
I always learn something at monthly programs and at conference sessions. But networking is a big part of what the forum does, and I am happy to be a part of a small committee that is reviving the Forum's monthly mixers at the campus club. (Watch for that notice soon!!)

About my role at the University
I am currently Web manager for the Extension Center for Youth Development. I started at the University of Minnesota in 2007.

What I like about working at the U:
Being surrounded by smart people who are all working to make everybody smarter!

Some of the coolest projects I've worked on at the U:
Right now I'm on a team that's developing an online learning environment for kids in 4-H. This is exciting because it hasn't been done before. We're building in the adult mentors, educational goals, formal evaluation, and of course it has to be fun or the kids won't go there.

Board member profile: Nicole Price

Nicole Price, UMCF Treasurer
Operations Coordinator
Carlson Executive Education
price511@umn.edu
612-626-3912

Became a member of UMCF: May 2013

About my role on the UMCF board:
I am responsible for all financial records, and oversees financial functions such as collecting of dues and fees, depositing income, paying bills approved by the board, and providing necessary financial information for reports. I also provided monthly reports to the board.

Some great Forum memories:
My first event was a program and event planning program. The info I received there was very informative and also gave me the chance to network with other event planners. From there, I decided to become a member of the UMCF.


About my role at the University
I am currently Operations Coordinator for Carlson Executive Education. I started at the University of Minnesota in April 2011.

Board member profile: Lani Payette

Lani Payette, UMCF Technology Committee co-chair   
Educational Technologist
Training Services, Organizational Effectiveness/OHR
payet003@umn.edu
612-626-7731

Became a member of UMCF: 1999
  
About my role on the UMCF board:
The Technology Committee maintains the website and membership database, supports special technology projects, and advises on technology-related topics. I like working with the other board members and all of the opportunities for creative thinking that come up.
   
Some great Forum memories:
I especially enjoyed last year's tour of the "For the Common Good" exhibit at Andersen Library and the archives/storage caverns. The history is interesting. Here's a video about the exhibit.

About my role at the University
I am currently an Educational Technologist in Training Services, Organizational Effectiveness/OHR. I started at the University of Minnesota in 1999.

Favorite place on campus:
Andersen Library caverns

More about Lani

My hometown:
Green Bay, Wisconsin | view it on a map

Paper book or e-book:
Paper

Favorite website:
Cute Overload

Board member profile: Katie Covey

Katie Covey, UMCF Marketing and Promotions Committee Co-Chair
Program & Project Specialist
Weisman Art Museum  
covey013@umn.edu
612-624-5154

Find me online: Personal website | Twitter
   
Became a member of UMCF: 2011
    
About my role on the UMCF board:
The Marketing and Promotions committee is responsible for marketing and promoting the Communicators Forum through member outreach, the annual member appreciation event and member drives. My favorite part of being part of the Marketing and Promotions committee is planning the member appreciation event.
   
Some great Forum memories:
My favorite forum event is always the annual conference. This past year I loved hearing from author and illustrator Debra Fraiser. Her talk on the creative process inspired me to start a notebook of my own!
 
About my role at the University
I am currently Program & Project Specialist for the Weisman Art Museum. I started at the University of Minnesota in May 2010.

Favorite place on campus:
The Weisman Art Museum!

What I like about working at the U:
I have a unique position at the U where I get to work directly with students but also with the wider University and community. I really enjoy planning and executing public programming that brings people together in creative collaboration. I love the hustle and bustle of being on a University campus and getting to experience the changing seasons and semesters.

A person at the U whom I admire:
I admire Lyndel King, the Director and Chief Curator of the Weiman Art Museum for her tenacity and determination to help fund and build our beautiful Frank Gehry designed facility. I am really lucky that I get to work at both a world class public University and in one of the most unique buildings in the country.

Some of the coolest projects I've worked on at the U:
One of the coolest projects that I've worked on is a collaborative design competition with the college of design's apparel design program. Last spring, non-traditional materials students took inspiration from one of our traveling exhibitions, Laylah Ali's 'Greenheads' series, and interpreted the work into a ready for the runway garment. It was amazing to see the different interpretations of the green-heads projected on to clothing.

Accomplishments I'm most proud of:
I am probably most proud of the student group that I started for the Weisman, WAM Collective. The Collective started with five members in 2010 and is now a full fledged campus life program with twenty undergraduate and graduate students who create art experiences for University of Minnesota students.

More about Katie

My hometown:
Good Thunder, Minnesota | view it on a map

Paper book or e-book:
Paper

Favorite website:
Tumblr

Favorite source of inspiration:
Tumblr

Favorite word:
amalgamation

Word that makes you cringe:
panty-hose

Favorite brand:
Vogue

Favorite band:
Bon Iver

What I do for fun:
Ride bike, garden, read and seek out Mexican restaurants with my husband Reggie.

My dream jobs (besides the one I have!):
Someday, I'd love to run my own gallery and boutique in NE Minneapolis.

Board member profile: Sarah Hollerich

Sarah Hollerich, UMCF At Large Director
Graphic Designer
Academic Support Resources
curtn007@umn.edu
612-626-7392

Became a member of UMCF: 2012
    
About my role on the UMCF board:
I help all of the committees with their design needs.
   
Some great Forum memories:
The WonderBarry improv program. Amazing!

About my role at the University
I am currently Graphic Designer for Academic Support Resources. I started at the University of Minnesota in May 2012.

Favorite place on campus:
The railroad bridge.

What I like about working at the U:
Vibrant atmosphere.

Some of the coolest projects I've worked on at the U:
StrengthsQuest monster magnets

More about Sarah

My hometown:
St. Paul, Minnesota | view it on a map

Paper book or e-book:
Paper

Word that makes you cringe:
package

What I do for fun:
Go on walks.

Board member profile: Patrice Johnson

Patrice Johnson, UMCF Board member
Registration Coordinator
Extension   

johns388@umn.edu   

612-625-6757

Find me online:
Twitter | Cultural Construct website | Culinary Construct | Called to the Table
   
Became a member of UMCF: 2002   

Some great Forum memories:
I love the Annual Conference.

About my role at the University
I am a Registration Coordinator for Extension. I started at the University of Minnesota in 1993.

Favorite place on campus:
The cows in St. Paul and the mall in Minneapolis.

What I like about working at the U:
Being surrounded and inspired by youthful energy.

More about Patrice

Paper book or e-book:
Paper

Favorite word:
köttbullar

Word that makes you cringe:
wound


Favorite brand:
Target

What I do for fun:
Think about cats.

My dream jobs (besides the one I have!):
Research, writing, teaching.

Board member profile: Erin "E" Kober

Erin "E" Kober, UMCF Marketing & Promotions Committee Co-Chair
Marketing Team Leader
Student Unions & Activities- Marketing Department 
kober008@umn.edu      
612-624-7271

Find me online: Twitter | Facebook
   
Became a member of UMCF: September 2011     

About my role on the UMCF board:
We promote the Communicators Forum to get people involved in the Forum. I like this role because I really enjoy talking to people, networking, and spreading the word about this great opportunity.  

Some great Forum memories:
I love attending the Conference each year. It is a great way to learn more about a variety of different topics and it is one of the few times each year that brings all the members together. I always feel refreshed after the Conference.

About my role at the University
I am currently Marketing Team Leader for the Student Unions & Activities- Marketing Department. I started at the University of Minnesota in August 2011.

Favorite place on campus:
Coffman Front Plaza

What I like about working at the U:
I really enjoy the pulse of campus. Students are eager to learn and get involved and I love that I get to help communicate all the opportunities that are available to them.

Some of the coolest projects I've worked on at the U:
Homecoming 2013: Ski-U-Madness marketing and communication campaign. We start planning for Homecoming months ahead of time so it is exciting to see when it all comes together and we bring thousands of people to our events.

Accomplishments I'm most proud of:
Seeing the growth of our student workers. Many of our students start their roles with little marketing experience, and it is exciting to see them grow in their roles and be able to prepare them for their professional careers.

More about Erin

My hometown:
Lonsdale, Minnesota | view it on a map

Paper book or e-book:
Paper

Favorite website:
Pinterest

Favorite source of inspiration:
Twitter

Favorite word:
Wonky

Word that makes you cringe:
None, although some songs make me cringe.

Favorite brand:
Anthropologie

What I do for fun:
Bike, run, camp, travel and explore breweries and vineyards..

My dream jobs (besides the one I have!):
Be a consultant- helping organizations to realize how they can better lead and utilize their spaces to support innovation and creativity.

Board member profile: Mandee Nguyen

Mandee Nguyen, UMCF Technology Committee Co-Chair
Writer and Editor
Academic Support Resources 
kugli005@umn.edu
 
Find me online:
Personal website | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn
   
Became a member of UMCF: January 2012    

About my role on the UMCF board:
The Technology Committee handles a lot of technical support for the other committees. We update the website, maintain the membership database, and also help with email communications. I enjoy learning new technologies and being in a supportive communication role.
   
Some great Forum memories:
I have two favorite programs: one about work/life balance and the improv one. The work/life balance one was very enlightening. The improv one was a nice break from daily work.

About my role at the University
I am currently Writer and Editor for Academic Support Resources. I started at the University of Minnesota in January 2012.

Favorite place on campus:
Folwell Hall

What I like about working at the U:
It's a great atmosphere. Everyone is always pushing themselves to be better and tries to produce the highest quality product possible.

Some of the coolest projects I've worked on at the U:
I handle a lot of the website content strategy on my team. One project I loved was a redesign of the Classroom Technical Services page. It was basically a place for me to play with the website and let my creativity run wild, within University standards. :-)

Accomplishments I'm most proud of:
Before starting at the U, I was heavily involved in journalism and wrote a lot of advocacy-type articles.

More about Mandee

My hometown:
Plymouth, Minnesota  | view it on a map

Paper book or e-book:
Paper

Favorite website:
skinnytaste.com (awesome recipes!)

Favorite source of inspiration:
The Internet

Favorite word:
Bamboozle


Word that makes you cringe:
Errands (annoys me more than makes me cringe)

Favorite brand:
Old Navy

What I do for fun:
I love to read, mostly nonfiction/memoirs, but a little bit of romance novels thrown in for fun. I also am a TV and Netflix addict. My husband and I always have a new show to marathon watch. Other activities include cooking, crafting, running, and talking way too much about my animals.

My dream jobs (besides the one I have!):
A mental health advocate/researcher

Board member profile: Kris Junker

Kris Junker, UMCF Awards Committee Co-Chair
Office Manager, Sr. Programs Coordinator
Center for Animal Health and Food Safety  
junk0011@umn.edu  
612-624-0048

Became a member of UMCF: 2011


About my role on the UMCF board:
The Awards Committee is responsible for all aspects of the annual UMCF awards, including submissions, judging, awards procurement and presentation. I like this committee first off because the people are great, we really enjoy getting together, I like getting a first hand look at all the submissions, seeing what others are doing, getting ideas for my unit, and being a co-chair has improved my project management skills. 
   
Some great Forum memories:
Creative Work Break: Improvisation with Barry Kudrowitz in Feb 2013. I enjoyed it because it got me out of my comfort zone, and helped me see a different way to look at things.

About my role at the University
I am currently Office Manager, Sr. Programs Coordinator for the Center for Animal Health and Food Safety. I started at the University of Minnesota in July 2006.

What I like about working at the U:
The collaborative approach, everyone's voice is heard. This can be a negative thing too at times, when I just want to move forward on something and have one person make a decision.

More about Kris

My hometown:
Stillwater, Minnesota | view it on a map

Paper book or e-book:
Paper

Favorite website:
DukeUpdate.com 

Favorite source of inspiration:
Really good advertisements 

Favorite word:
Yes

Word that makes you cringe:
Circle back   

What I do for fun:
Traveling for sports is probably my number one. I love Tennis and College Basketball (primarily Duke Blue Devils and Minnesota Gophers). If I had the funds to support my sports habit, I would be on the road half the year and at every tennis major, senior night, conference tournament and NCAA tourney. 

My dream jobs (besides the one I have!):
Leading my own organization that is a hybrid of venture capital and coaching to help people start and build their own businesses.

Board member profile: Rebecca Noran

Rebecca Noran, UMCF chair
assistant director for web communications
Academic Health Center Office of Communications   
ran@umn.edu      
612-625-4523 

Find me online:
Personal website | LinkedIn | Pinterest | Instagram | Twitter | Facebook

Became a member of UMCF: January 2001

UMCF member profile 2010

About my role on the UMCF board:
According to the Forum bylaws, the chair "presides at all meetings of the board of directors ... generally supervises the activities of the organization ... represents the organization."

Some great Forum memories:

• Two programs I helped plan in my early days at the U on the program committee: 1. inviting a favorite professor from Macalester, Ruthann Godollei, to talk about typography, and 2. the infamous institutional identity talk where Janet Abrams, head of the Design Institute, trash talked the work of U communicators (and we loved to hate it!).
• When the design swap group would meet
  
• Helping develop the concept for a people's choice Mike award as a member of the awards committee, inspired by a paper event where they did this
  
• Designing the Mission: Possible conference "FBI" file
  
• The hands-on sessions at conference, like paper cutting this year, letterpress a few years ago
  
• Debra Frasier
  
• Grammar Girl
  
• Wing Young Huie's workshop (which inspired a session at Extension program conference)
  
• Touring the U Library archives 
• And of course, seeing everyone at annual conference and enjoying the day talking to all my communications colleagues... and sometimes winning prizes at the raffle (Vikings tickets! First Aid kit!)!
  

About my role at the University
I am currently assistant director for web communications for the Academic Health Center (AHC) Office of Communications. I started at the University of Minnesota on January 1, 2001. I previously worked leading the communications team in the Extension Center for Food, Agricultural, and Natural Resource Sciences (EFANS/CFANS-Extension) and as part of the communications team for the College of Education and Human Development (CEHD).

Favorite place on campus:
Weisman Art Museum and my morning walk across the Washington Avenue Bridge.

What I like about working at the U:
There are interesting, amazing things happening in all its nooks and crannies. It is filled with potential... and bringing that potential to reality through various projects is an exciting challenge. I learn new stuff all the time here.

A person at the U whom I admire:
Nance Longley, graphic designer/design coordinator in CEHD communications, course leader for Philosophy Camp, sometimes instructor for basic media graphics in the School of Journalism: I sat next to Nance for more than 7 years in the CEHD communications office, and she is an inspiration and a mentor. She gives back greatly to the U community in so many ways, and definitely has to the Forum over the years: She was a volunteer of the year, her Imagine! Inspire! Ignite! matchbook for the 13th UMCF conference invite was fantastic, and she's the person who actually found the Mike and had it made into an award!   


Some of the coolest projects I've worked on at the U:
So many!

• At CEHD: I loved going on photo shoots and interviewing people when I worked for the alumni magazine (would end up in the most interesting places!), the visual identity project, creating recruitment materials for our diversity programs and for the first undergraduate programs when we became a new college, designing various T-shirts, designing the "education in every nook and cranny" building notecards, planning our State Fair booth, our Get smart(er) campaign. The project of getting banners on our buildings for CEHD was an eye-opener. Finding grass in January for a summer catalog photo shoot my first month working at the U (turfgrass lab had some we could use!).
  
• At CFANS Extension: It was neat being there when emerald ash borer was discovered in MN, and our team created a go-to web page and educational materials.... also getting to know all the amazing Extension educators! I am proud of establishing some clear processes in a time of transition, the EFANS Connects webinars to stay connected across the state, of the work our communications team created (what a great team, and interesting content!), and speaking to a room full of people at Extension program conference in Duluth after less than two months on the job.
  
• Other: I love the projects I did for the Weisman Art Museum with Springsteen, Gehry, Dylan, and for the Goldstein Museum of Design (Hip Art That's Square, Seeing Color, Mayan Textiles...), doing the Places to Go: Bathrooms of the Twin Cities exhibit for my M.F.A. in College of Design, assignments for documentary filmmaking and artists' books classes, participating in training and such for Art of Hosting Conversations that Matter.
  
• At AHC: And now it's really interesting being part of the health sciences, including launching our new health.umn.edu and hub.ahc.umn.edu websites, planning our web upgrade transformation, and working with an amazingly talented team of great people!

Accomplishments I'm most proud of (at the U):

• Getting an M.F.A. while working full time -- what a great perk of being at the U!
• Doing the President's Emerging Leaders (PEL) program and the Women's Leadership Institute -- working on our PEL innovation project.
• Serving on the CEHD diversity committee for a number of years and helping make some of the committee ideas come to life.
• Being photo editor on Connect magazine.
  
• Contributing to the visual identity projects for CEHD and Extension.
• Helping get Extension's web overhaul off the ground.
• Embarking on a web transformation for the Academic Health Center.
• And since this is a Forum interview, of course: Being on the receiving team for 27 Maroon and Gold Awards, including 4 MARGOS, 3 GREENS, and 2 MIKES!
  

More about Rebecca

My hometown:
Montclair, New Jersey | view it on a map

Paper book or e-book:
Paper

Favorite website (most used, anyway):
Wikipedia | Metro Transit
 
Favorite source of inspiration:
Walking. Sketching. Looking at examples. Visiting a museum.

Favorite word:
Groovy

Word that makes you cringe:
"Harvesting" in reference to an animal or anything that requires unsuck-it.

Favorite brand:
The Muppets

What I do for fun:
Color with markers while listening to music. Watch the tube. Connect with friends and family. Take photos and write captions for them. Explore. Travel. Riff. Play Boggle (when the opportunity arises).

My dream jobs (besides the one I have!):
Museum director. Creative director at IDEO or such. Innovation think tank thinker. Person like Diana Vreeland who says "I'm thinking magenta elephants with a NY77 vibe" and amazing things result. Fancy pen and marker tester.

Tell your coworkers and friends about UMCF!

Did you know: UMCF isn't just for University of Minnesota employees. That's right. If you are independently employed/outside the University or if you are a student enrolled in a University program, you can become a member. The general membership fee is $40; $20 for students. So if you know of anyone who may be interested, spread the word. 

To register or for more information, please direct people to our website. For full information on the benefits and values of becoming a University of Minnesota Communicators Forum member, check out this page.

Volunteer for the Technology Committee!

Interested in contributing to the Communicators Forum? Have a love for technology? The Technology Committee is looking for volunteers! The Technology Committee provides support for leveraging the use of technology to support the mission of the Forum and advises the board on technology-related topics. The committee maintains the Forum website, database integration, and membership mailing lists.

Liaison Arrangement 

Designated members of the Technology Committee act as liaisons to each of the other UMCF committees and to the board of directors. Liaisons are responsible for the following duties as they relate to their assigned committees:

1. Attending assigned committee meetings as needed based on the workload of the committee and time availability of the liaison, recognizing that this is voluntary commitment.

2. Coordinating updates to the web pages related to the committee and its work. This may include working with other members of the committee to obtain photos, written statements, or other materials to be posted to the website.

3. Updating in a timely manner those web pages related to the committee and, if necessary, asking for assistance from other members of the Technology Committee.

Interested? Contact Mandee Nguyen at kugli005@umn.edu or Lani Payette at payet003@umn.edu.

Board member profile: Honey VanderVenter

Honey VanderVenter, UMCF Vice Chair
Constituent Relations Coordinator
College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences 
hvander@umn.edu     
612-625-6710 
 
Find me online: Twitter | LinkedIn

Became a member of UMCF: 2007     

About my role on the UMCF board:
I work with other board members and committees on any special projects that need extra support.
 
Some great Forum memories:
The Forum conference has always been a favorite of mine. I enjoy learning from the other speakers and forum members.

About my role at the University

I am currently a Constituent Relations Coordinator for the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences. I started working at the University of Minnesota in February 2007. 

Favorite place on campus:
Dairy salesroom and the libraries

What I like about working at the U:
I enjoy the diversity of topics that come up in all the projects that we do. I get a chance to work with staff, faculty, students, and the public in the work that I do. I find it a great asset to learn about the variety of perspectives and experiences people have with the University of Minnesota and with CFANS.
 
Some of the coolest projects I've worked on at the U:
I just finished coordinating exhibits and volunteers for a wing in the Agriculture/Horticulture building at the State Fair. It included Extension Master Gardeners, Research and Outreach Centers, Flavor Center, Healthy Foods Healthy Lives, the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum, the Bell Museum of Natural History, Entomology, and other department exhibits throughout the fair. We also had an activity called Garden in a Glove that both kids and adults enjoyed. Plus we handed out Goldy Gopher ears that people could wear!

 More about Honey

My hometown:
Lino Lakes, Minnesota | view it on a map
  
Paper book or e-book:
Electronic

What I do for fun:
Cooking and biking are my two favorite activities. I'm not competitive in either, but they are great stress free activities for me.     

Board member profile: Sarah Howard

Sarah Howard, UMCF Programs Committee Chair
Communications Manager
School of Journalism & Mass Communication  
showard@umn.edu   
612-625-8095  

Find me online: Personal website | LinkedIn
   
Became a member of UMCF: June 2011      

About my role on the UMCF board:
The Programs Committee plans the monthly programming for UMCF members. Because the programs bring together members of the Forum, it's fun to get to know members through this group. Plus, if we have a topic we want to learn more about, we can plan a program around it! Have an idea of a program you'd like to see? Contact me!   

Some great Forum memories:
I really enjoy the annual conference. Taking the day to learn and network with colleagues is a great way to stay refreshed at work. I also really enjoyed last year's program on work-life balance. Not every program or activity has to be directly related to your job. Taking time for personal development is important as well.

About my role at the University
I am currently Communications Manager for the School of Journalism & Mass Communication. I started at the University of Minnesota in June 2011.

Favorite place on campus:
Northrop Mall, especially in the spring!

What I like about working at the U:
I'm a 2006 alumna of the University of Minnesota, so being able to come to work everyday at a place where I have such warm memories is just great. I also really enjoy the emphasis on professional and personal development here. I've learned so much in some really great sessions through different organizations here on campus (UMCF as well as Office of Equity & Diversity and Organizational Effectiveness).  

A person at the U whom I admire:
Diana Harvey (UMN's chief communications officer) is a great inspiration to me. Not only is she personable and available to colleagues, but she has a really strong track record of effective communications leadership -- both at the University of Minnesota and at a variety of organizations around the Twin Cities community.  

Some of the coolest projects I've worked on at the U:
Every year, my department has a spring celebration for students and donors. When I came to the U, the event was in need of a make-over and myself and a colleague were charged with making that happen. Starting from scratch, adding new elements, renovating the program and seeing the event come together as a great success was really fulfilling.

Accomplishments I'm most proud of:
I recently finished my master's degree in strategic communication from the University of Minnesota. I never thought I'd go to graduate school, much less enjoy it!

More about Sarah

My hometown:
Excelsior, Minnesota | view it on a map    

Paper book or e-book:
Paper

Favorite website:
BuzzFeed
 
Favorite source of inspiration:  
Fast Company magazine

Favorite word:
Vacation

Word that makes you cringe:   
Like. When it's, like, overused!

Favorite brand:
Target

What I do for fun:
I love to play tennis, take my dog, Jack to the dog park, be on or near water or take road trips whenever possible.

Upcoming Programs

Find details and register for upcoming programs.

Kick-Off

Wednesday, September 18, 3-4:30 p.m. - Digital Technology Center, 402 Walter Library

Kick off the new year with the UMN Communicators Forum. This event features a reception and networking, plus a presentation from OIT's Matt Nuttall, who will give us a run-down on such IT initiatives as Lyris mass email replacement, drupal, Google sites and more. 

Register here.

UMCF & Web Standards present Health Quest: Story of a UMN iPhone App

Friday, September 20, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. - 35 Nicholson Hall

Pizza at 11:30 a.m. 

Presentation w/Q+A: Noon to 1 p.m.

This presentation will be available live via Google Hangout and a recording will be provided afterwards.

Do you want to make an app but aren't sure where to start or the commitment involved? Justin Paquette, Patrik Dousa, and David Krewinghaus from Academic Health Center (AHC) Communications will share the story of creating their first iPhone app called Health Quest, a photo scavenger hunt for the Minnesota State Fair. From initial concept, in-house development/design, and approval from Apple, to the hot summer Fair days of cheese curds, Pronto Pups, and the KARE 11 barn, we'll cover:

1. Overview (why an app, how it works)

2. Design and development process

3. Promoting the app

4. Results, lessons learned, and future plans

There will be a Q&A session after the presentation with time for anyone in the audience to share their own experiences with creating an app. This presentation is for a wide range of audiences and will cover both technical and general aspects of this app project.

RSVP by Wednesday, September 18.

Communicators Forum Monthly Mixer

Thursday, September 26, 3:30-5:30 p.m. - Campus Club (4th floor, Coffman Union) - reserved area

There's a new opportunity to connect with colleagues for a professional, social, networking fun good time: introducing the Communicators Forum Monthly Mixer at the Campus Club. You know that time in between sessions at conference or at the start/end of a program where you get into a good conversation with a colleague but need to break it off? This is all about those informal but extremely helpful conversations.

- Anyone welcome -- stop in whenever and bring a friend, even if they aren't a member

- Nachos provided! (Drinks and other items on your own)

- Attendees will be entered into a raffle to win a free lunch at the Campus Club.

This is the launch of a monthly event held the first Thursday of the month (except this one). The next one and (first actual first Thursday) will be November 7.

Please RSVP if you think you might attend (to help with planning, you can still attend if you haven't RSVP'd).

The Enterprise Portal: Your Future BFF

Thursday, October 24, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. - 102 Fraser 

Have you heard about the Enterprise Systems Upgrade Program (ESUP)? Did you know about the new Portal? Come to this brown bag to learn all about it and how communicators will play a crucial role in its success!

Check back here later for more details (including RSVP form); or find us on Facebook or Twitter!

 

Save the Date: Annual Communicators Forum Conference

June 19, 2014 - Carlson School of Management

Keynote speaker: Ellen Lupton

Board member profile: Kess Knight

Kess Knight, UMCF Recorder
knigh161@umn.edu
612-624-5386

Find me online:
Personal website | Twitter | Instagram | LinkedIn

Became a member of UMCF: February 2013

About my role on the UMCF board:
As the Recorder, I am responsible for taking the board meeting minutes, organizing the UMCF newsletter and blog, and managing the UMCF social media sites. I love social media, like, a lot. Some may call it a sickness. I love the opportunity to connect with other communicators through these channels - so tweet, post, share with us!

Some great Forum memories:
I've only attended the conference, which was a great experience. Debra Frasier's keynote was exceptional and hope to utilize the tips and tricks she spoke about in my day-to-day life.

About my role at the University
I am currently a Communications Coordinator for Academic Support Resources.
I started at the University of Minnesota in July 2007.

More about Kess

Accomplishments I'm most proud of:
Receiving my MA degree in Strategic Communication.

Hometown:
Hermantown, Minnesota | View it on a map

Paper book or e-book:
Paper

Favorite website:
BuzzFeed

Favorite word:
Kerfuffle

Word that makes you cringe:
I can't even say it. I'll just say, the "m" word.

Favorite brand:
Google

My dream jobs (besides the one I have!):
Author