Division of Student Affairs - Office of External Relations
Office of External Relations
The Office of External Relations (OER) helps tell the story of who we are and what we do. We connect marketing, communications, and partnerships to share our impact, strengthen our reputation, and support efforts that grow awareness, engagement, and revenue.
This strategic framework is built upon three core principles that guide every decision, campaign, and partnership across the Office of External Relations.
Strategic Communications Philosophy
Marketing: Priority-Driven Support
OER strategically allocates resources to initiatives that are either:
1. Designated as institutional or divisional strategic priorities and/or
2. Contribute to revenue targets (fundraising, housing occupancy, program fees)
Branding: Layered, Intentional Approach
OER strengthens the Student Affairs brand by making sure all communications support the goals of the division and the university. Our work connects strategy with action to deliver real, measurable results.
Communication: From Inspiration to Action
By strategically connecting storytelling with resources and institutional investments, OER ensures communication goes beyond awareness, inspires engagement and translates directly into calls to action that generate measurable impact.
Mission
OER’s Mission:
To strengthen Student Affairs by sharing meaningful stories, building partnerships, and ensuring our communications and brand reflect the division’s priorities and highlight the impact we have on students.
Vision
OER Vision:
To be a trusted strategic partner and unifying force that elevates Student Affairs as a recognized model for student-centered impact, where storytelling, partnership, and data-driven insight deepen belonging, inspire investment, and advance the full 4D student experience.
Values
Student Impact First
We center every strategy, story, and partnership on how our work improves the student experience, advances well-being, and supports student success across the 4D Experience.
One Voice, Many Channels
We champion a cohesive, accessible, and authentic Student Affairs brand to ensure consistency while adapting our message for diverse audiences, platforms, and moments of engagement.
Story with Purpose
We believe storytelling is a strategic tool. Our narratives are grounded in data, equity, and lived experience, translating complex work into compelling stories that inspire trust, connection, and investment.
Partnership and Collaboration
We work across units and with campus and external partners to amplify impact, reduce silos, and build shared ownership of Student Affairs priorities and outcomes.
Equity, Access, and Belonging
We are intentional about whose stories are told, how they are told, and who they reach further committing to practices that reflect the full diversity of our community.
Stewardship and Accountability
We act as responsible stewards of relationships, resources, and reputation by using data, insight, and continuous improvement to ensure our work delivers meaningful, measurable value.
