The In Trust Center recently presented a webinar on social media to an audience of theological seminaries across the United States and Canada.
The Center's vice president for communication, Jay Blossom, shared the webinar hosting duties with Leanne Van Dyk, president of Columbia Theological Seminary in Decatur, Georgia. Together they provided guidance on cultivating an authentic, trusted voice on social media platforms in “normal” times -- and then employing this voice to communicate during crises. Van Dyk relayed her experiences in developing a social media strategy during her first year at Columbia Seminary.
Social Media Resources
Seminary examples
Facebook and Twitter accounts have almost a daily presence, with a wide variety of posts. A video campaign called “Student Spotlight” is usually liked and shared frequently. They also post videos on other sites like Vimeo and Ustream.
A daily presence on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram with a wide variety of posts and consistency among the three platforms. They also spotlight their president, Dale Meyer, whose “Meyer Minutes” discusses current topics.
A daily presence on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, with a wide variety of topics and campaigns like Throw Back Thursdays and Wisdom Wednesdays. Also a strong presence on YouTube, with new videos every couple of months.
A daily presence on Facebook and Twitter, with a wide variety of topics. They are also one of the only schools to have their LinkedIn page present on their website’s homepage.
Resources
Books
Seminary communication plan
CASE’s management checklist for communications and marketing
Communication tips for presidents
Need help cultivating your own “voice”? See MailChimp’s style guide.
For your social media manager
Social media/marketing blogs:
Tips, articles, information:
Top Topics
Roles & Responsibilities
Challenges
Opportunities
Board Essentials
Explore these additional resources that may be of interest to you.
The In Trust Center hosts learning community spaces throughout the year. Check out our upcoming events below.
ON DEMAND
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Theological schools are launching innovative projects to reshape education, but many struggle to achieve transformational change despite strong grant funding. Human nature, organizational culture, and governance practices often hinder progress. In this webinar, Drs. Aaron Einfeld and David Rowe provide tools to identify/overcome hidden barriers to change, offer practical steps for institutional leadership to move their institutions forward
Board members are typically recruited for their leadership, business acumen, and networks. Dr. Rebekah Basinger, project director of the In Trust Center’s Wise Stewards Initiative, will discuss how strategic questioning and interrogation skills are essential for effective board stewardship.
In Trust Center provides Resource Consulting to our members at no charge. Contact us today and let us guide you to the most helpful resources for your situation.
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