Ryan Yarosh
Assistant director of media and public relations, Binghamton University, Binghamton, NY
CAST member since 2004
Past publicity co-chair
What does your office do?
The Office of Media and Public Relations is part of Binghamton University's Department of Marketing and Communications. We manage external communications for the university.
What's your role?
Originally, my job was to coordinate with local media, sending out press releases, pitching stories, managing press conferences, creating the weekly "Ask a Scientist Column" in the Press, etc. Today, I'm also responsible for the university's presence on YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and MySpace. I work with local and national media to inform the community about all the great things happening on campus. I also work with interns and freelancers to make sure we have regular video content for the Web pages and press releases.
Tell us about the special challenges you face in your job.
Binghamton University is the size of a small city. It's always a challenge to make sure you're aware of everything that's happening on campus, both good and bad, and to decide what to highlight. Also, although we receive a lot of great press, all it takes is one negative incident to make people forget about the good things. When we face challenges like those we've had in the past year, I feel it's my job to remind people about all the amazing things our students and faculty are accomplishing.
What training and prior experience led you to this point in your career?
I earned a BA in English from Binghamton in 2002. During that time, I did internships at Literacy Volunteers of Broome and Tioga County and at WICZ Fox 40. While still a student, I got a job at Fox 40, starting as a part time editor. After becoming a full time editor, I was promoted to producer. Later, I worked the assignment desk for quite a while and did some reporting. In all, I worked at the station for about six years, ending as assistant news director. I also sold real estate on the side, continuing that for several years after I started at the university. In 2009, I completed a Masters in Public Administration at Binghamton University.
Why do you belong to CAST?
I like that it's a diverse group, in terms of all the talents and skills that everyone brings to the table. It's a great group of individuals to network with. We all have some sort of common interest.
How have you benefited from your membership in CAST?
During my time on the Board of Directors, I especially liked being able to bring in interesting speakers for the luncheons. I particularly remember the time Dave Rossie joined us. He's one of the most experienced reporters in Broome County, and I thought he gave us some great insights. Discussions like that make CAST a group that's worth being part of.
To learn more about Binghamton University, visit www.binghamton.edu.
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