Frequently Asked Questions | Public Relations & Marketing

How do I contact my public relations representative?

Each department, unit, center and student organization at the University of Kentucky and UK HealthCare is assigned a public relations representative to help disseminate information to the media and the public. You can locate your UK PR&M representative in our directory and contact that person directly or if your unit has a communications representative, you can work through that person as well.

What action is required to get my story in the news?

UK PR&M representatives establish effective processes to ensure your area's stories reach appropriate media outlets. You will work individually with a UK PR&M representative to design a fluid process for sharing stories. The first essential step is contacting your UK PR&M representative.

Can I submit my own press release to UKNow?

Yes, UK PR&M representatives will accept pre-written press releases from student organizations, faculty or staff members that are appropriate for UKNow. However, they reserve the right to edit submitted news releases to reflect correct grammar, standard news structure and Associated Press/UK style. View the Style Guide for writing a news release.

How will I know if my story was covered by the media?

UK PR&M representatives track media coverage and can provide a media report.

A member of the media has contacted me for the first time. How should I respond?

If you receive a cold call or request from a member of the media, you can refer the journalist to your department's UK PR&M representative who will direct the reporter to the appropriate expert, even if that person is you. The UKPR&M representative will obtain permission from the UK expert before setting up any interview.

All UK HealthCare patients, faculty and staff should contact their UK PR&M representative to provide assistance in compliance with HIPAA during media interviews. Additionally, all media must be accompanied by a member of UK PR&M if they are in a patient care facility, or certain research, academic or residential buildings.

Can I get advice on how best to respond during media interviews?

Yes. You can consult with your UKPR&M representative about possible questions, etc. Also, UK PR&M provides media training for UK experts and leaders who are frequently interviewed. If you are interested in media training, contact your UK PR&M representative.

May I use a University of Kentucky logo or the "see blue." graphic for my official university project?

There are specific guidelines for using the official UK logo and other graphics produced by members of the university community. The Brand Standards website is a very helpful resource for instruction and guidance.

I'm aware of a crisis situation at UK and want to notify the campus community. Who should I contact first?

In every emergency, immediately report it to University of Kentucky Police, who will then work with UK PR&M to communicate with the campus. Call 911, 859-257-1616 or hit #UKPD from any cellular device.

What should I do if I spot media in a medical facility or research building unaccompanied by UK PR&M?

Report the media to security, 859-323-6152, who will then contact UK PR&M.

What is the university's official shade of blue?

The University of Kentucky's official shade of blue is PANTONE 286 C • PANTONE 286 U. More information about UK's official colors can be found in the University’s Graphic Standards Manual.

Can I create a logo for my unit/department?

Secondary logos are not permitted. The brand identity and strength lie in the University of Kentucky name and marks. UK’s Graphic Standards Manual is available for review and to assist in your graphic design needs.

Can I create my own stationery?

No. Alterations may not be made to any element of the university’s letterhead options, other stationery or the business cards. Visual samples and instructions on how to order official university stationary are found in the university’s Graphic Standards Manual.

I need campus maps for an upcoming event. Where do I get those?

Call 859-257-1754 to request printed campus maps.

I need photos of campus for a print piece/website/project our department/unit is working on. Where can I access campus photos?

Contact your UK PR&M representative to schedule a time to visit the Mathews Building to review the UK PR&M photo library. You will need to bring a flash drive, external hard drive or have access to a cloud storage site, such as Dropbox, to take photos back to your workstation. Limited photos may be found on our Brand Downloads page.

I need a unit signature/lock up for my department. Where do I get those?

Most every unit and departmental signature is available for download from our website. Downloads are available in .jpeg and .pang formats. Should you need another format (some print vendors need .Ps for example) or need an update or correction to your unit signature, visit our Brand Downloads site.

My organization/group is having a fundraiser/event on campus. Do you have any giveaways we can have to pass out at our event?

Due to the overwhelming demand and budget constraints, we do not keep any quantity of giveaway items on hand in our office.

Where can I get UK lapel pins?

University lapel pins are available to university units and departments for a per pin fee. Contact 859-257-1754 for more information.