Pilot publication reveals media insight on future
Derick Jones
Issue date: 3/4/10 Section: News
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First on her list: the creation of a magazine.
LaPierre proposed the merging of LSUS's previous tabloid style newsletter into a full color, bi-annual magazine. By the end of the spring semester, her magazine had come to fruition.
"My goal was to show the community and alumni what's happening on campus. I wanted to be able to show our alumni and our donors the active study body and accomplished students here. I feel that [the goal] has been accomplished," said LaPierre.
It wasn't just a few meetings with advertisers and photographers; this was the beginning of a soon-to-be community masterpiece.
Around 25-30 pages, the magazine is divided into six sections: faculty, foundation, news, alumni, athletics and the cover story. Each section has its own concept which celebrates something in the LSUS community. Also featured is "From the Chancellor's Desk," Chancellor Vincent Marsala's, Ph.D., address to the community.
"Vivid photographs" are always a must, according to LaPierre. A PDF version can also be found online at LSUS's website.
LaPierre also explained that "when deciding the factors of what would be reported" members of the editorial board looked at their target demographic- alumni, donors and the community.
Most articles revolve around alumni and faculty making a difference in the community and changing lives in their field of study. Other pieces focus on donors and esteemed professionals who contribute to the funding of LSUS.
"This magazine is hard work," she said. LaPierre, along with a few other key individuals, write all the stories included in the publication.
But even with her small staff, LaPierre has managed to step it up and oversee the workings of the magazine, as well as various other media outlets on campus.
"Working for Jennifer [LaPierre] and the media relations department was one of the most rewarding experiences thus far in my career. Being able to help her with the design, writing and editing was a great experience," said Jennifer Cook, LSUS alumni.
As editor-in-chief, LaPierre focuses on what's important - the reader.
"What I do is for everyone's benefit - from press releases to organizing fund-raisers, it's for everyone," said LaPierre.
However, with recent budget cuts over the past year (along with various other factors) the publication will be halting its bi-annual routine.
"Because of lack of resources, it has been decided that LSUS Magazine will continue, but will no longer be bi-annual. However, we will be combining the Chancellor's Report with the magazine, as well as lengthening the pages," said LaPierre.
The Chancellor's Report is a yearly publication in which Chancellor Marsala addresses the LSUS Foundation, alumni and donors on issues such as revenue, spending, fiscal data, etc.
The revamped magazine will debut this fall.
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