The College of Visual and Performing Arts’ Office of Communications has created a set of guidelines for those who are involved in the creation and maintenance of social media accounts associated with VPA. If you have any questions about the guidelines below, please contact Erica Blust at esblust@syr.edu.
While we understand that rules that govern social media are its antithesis, this document is a means of sharing core brand and social media guidance for those involved in creating/maintaining social media accounts associated with VPA and its schools, departments, programs, classes, and clubs/groups (sanctioned or otherwise).
These are guiding principles for the activities of the college.
VPA embraces the use of social media. Social media provides a valuable tool for developing and maintaining relationships with students, alumni, donors, parents, and the global community. Social media affords VPA a forum to engage in discussions and share insights, news, and experiences. We value the two-way conversation and welcome this opportunity to receive feedback.
Remember that the goals of VPA social media should correlate with our mission, vision, and values and:
- Establish/maintain the “vibrancy of VPA”–a place and community of people who create a brand together that’s bigger than each maintain independently
- Engage prospective students
- Establish relationships with incoming students
- Maintain relationships with current students, alumni, and friends/donors
- Share news and promote events (exhibitions, lectures, performances, etc.)
- Share exciting and unique content
- Reach a wider, more diverse audience
- Learn about the target community and its needs/interests
- Educate the public about the overall awesomeness of VPA
Both in professional and institutional roles, VPA employees and students should follow the same behavioral standards online as they would in real life. The same ethics, laws, professional expectations, and guidelines for interacting with each other, students, parents, alumni, donors, media, and other University constituents apply online as in the real world.
What We Mean by “Social Media”
Social media includes web- and mobile-based technologies that are used to turn communication into interactive dialogue among organizations, communities, and individuals. Social media allows us to share our story via words, images, and video.
Currently, the social media platforms used most regularly by VPA are Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. As social media continues to grow, VPA will evaluate the advantages of new and different platforms. Links to all current VPA social media accounts may be found on the footer (bottom) of the college website, vpa.syr.edu.
Message
If you are involved in creating/maintaining social media accounts associated with VPA and its schools, departments, programs, classes, and clubs/groups, keep in mind VPA’s mission and vision:
- Mission: the College of Visual and Performing Arts at Syracuse University is committed to the education of cultural leaders who will engage and inspire audiences through performance, visual art, design, scholarship, and commentary. We provide the tools for self-discovery and risk-taking in an environment that thrives on critical thought and action.
- Vision: the vision of the College of Visual and Performing Arts is founded upon the belief that art and scholarship can affect change.
Copyright and Fair Use
Respect copyright and fair use laws. When citing the work of another person or organization, professional bloggers, like journalists, will use proper attribution as well as a link (if applicable). Trademarks such as logos, slogans, and digital content (art, music, photos, etc.) may require permission from the copyright owner. It is your responsibility to seek that permission if you intend to use any such trademarked content.
Proprietary Information
Caution! Confidential or proprietary University information or similar information of third parties should not be shared publicly on these social media channels. Use ethical judgment and follow University and federal requirements, such as HIPPA. Visit supolicies.syr.edu for more information.
Transparency
Be honest about your identity. If you choose to post about VPA on your personal time, please identify yourself. Never hide your identity for the purpose of promoting VPA through social media.
Passwords/Security
Create a system with a backup plan. If an unexpected situation arises it is important that multiple individuals have access to existing social media accounts. We have had situations in the past where individuals were unable to access important accounts.
Use Good Judgment
Do not post material that is harassing, obscene, defamatory, libelous, threatening, hateful, or embarrassing to any person or entity. Do not post words, jokes, or comments based on an individual’s gender, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, age, or religion. Posts should be dignified and in good taste and should not contain vulgar or obscene words or images. Make sure that your conduct is consistent with the policies of the University. (University policies may be found at supolicies.syr.edu.)
Remember, This Is Public
Think before you post, remembering that anything you share within social media--even within a closed network--is not private. It can and will be shared, stored, and spread globally. Don’t post anything online you wouldn’t feel comfortable seeing on the front page of the newspaper.
Respect
Anything you post in your role as a VPA representative reflects on the institution. Be professional and respectful at all times on your social media site. Do not engage in arguments or extensive debates on the site.
Mistakes
We all make them. When you do, correct them promptly.