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Public Relations

Scope of Work

We work with leaders and communications teams across the U of M System to share stories with media and external audiences about the people, the work and the value that the University delivers to our students, our state's economy, every Minnesotan and beyond.

Services

The public relations team provides a full suite of external communications and media relations services to widely share University stories and enhance the University’s reputation. 

  • Strategic and leadership counsel
  • Short- and long-term communications planning and message development
  • Responsive and proactive media engagement to connect journalists with faculty expertise and University leaders
  • Thought leadership assistance (planning and materials development)
  • Priority story amplification (e.g., University research and expertise; mission-based, legislative, Board of Regents or administrative priorities)
  • Media training for senior leadership, faculty, staff and students
  • Issues management
  • Crisis communications

Team Members

Chuck Tombarge

Chief Public Relations Officer

Jake Ricker

Senior Director of Public Relations

Andria Waclawski

Director of Public Relations

Staff

Allie Bean
Public Relations Consultant
Rachel Cain
Public Relations Strategist
Savannah Erdman
Public Relations Strategist
Christopher Kelly
Public Relations Strategist
Talia Milavetz
Public Relations Strategist
Brad Robideau
National Media Relations Consultant
Amy Tolson
Public Relations Strategist

Expert Alert

Amplify University of Minnesota expertise to local, national, and international journalists

Research Brief

Share how your published research tackles the world’s challenges and the issues important to Minnesotans with all audiences

Today's News

Receive a weekday morning email containing a recap of select media stories about the University