Media Relations

Media Relations gets URI’s stories in the public’s view. We publish daily to Rhody Today, pitch news stories to local and national media, and respond to queries through press releases, announcements, online communications, and/or other professional connections.

We also manage crisis communications for public safety emergencies, or other incidents that could affect the credibility and reputation of the institution such as criminal activity, or problems related to the fiscal, academic, administrative and athletic elements of the University.

News and Information

Our office is the first stop for connecting with University leaders, faculty, staff or students related to any news item. Get in touch by calling 401.874.2116.

University updates are made available as part of Rhody Today.

Common Requests

  • Interviews: Want to interview, photograph or film people or events at URI? Please contact us for appropriate permissions and ease of access. All commercial, non-news photography or videotaping must be approved in advance by this office, 401.874.2116.
  • Gallery of Professional Video: The University may provide media outlets with b-roll and other video materials suitable for broadcast and/or webcast. Such material would be furnished “Courtesy of The University of Rhode Island” and will include URI copyright notice. Samples of some footage is available on URI’s YouTube channel.
  • Emergency Communication/Contacts: In a crisis situation, the department releases information and arranges interviews with the most appropriate spokesperson(s).
  • Information About Students: FERPA may prohibit someone at the University from releasing certain information about a student, including even acknowledging whether they are currently enrolled. The campus directory provides information current students have approved for publication.

What’s Happening at URI?

  • Events: The University’s official calendar of events.
  • Speeches: Some presentations made at the University may have been captured, steamed, and later available on URI’s YouTube channel. For example, all of URI’s fall Honors Colloquia, Commencement and other major events are captured in this manner. There is no central department that collects remarks made by the speakers.
  • Athletics: Information about the University’s teams, schedules, coaches and players is available at GoRhody.com.

General Information