The official University Policy Manual is housed in the Office of the University Secretary. The University Secretary is responsible for maintaining new and updated policies and for maintaining this website. Should the official University Policy Manual conflict with any internal policies, procedures, departmental administrative rules, or guidelines, that may be contained in manuals provided by schools, departments, or divisions within the University, the official University Policy Manual controls.
Policy number: 13.3
Policy section: Marketing and Communications
Revised Date:
1. Definitions
Definitions of capitalized terms are set forth in Appendix A.
2. Policy Statement
At the direction of the President, the Executive Vice President and Provost (“the Provost”) and the Office of Marketing and Communications will have authority for creating and disseminating official University Statements and Announcements; as well as determining spokespeople. Marketing and Communications also coordinates Statements and Announcements created and distributed by Schools and Units, following established guidelines.
3. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to protect the public image of the University while ensuring the accuracy and, as appropriate, the confidentiality of its information.
4. Applicability
All faculty, students, staff, volunteers, and contractors are expected to comply with this policy.
5. Questions
Questions regarding this policy are to be directed to the Office of Marketing and Communications.
Appendix A: Definitions
“Announcement” refers to timely, celebratory, or promotional University information provided to the public.
“School” refers to SMU’s seven schools and one college, and departments and programs within.
“Statement” refers to a University opinion or situational status/update provided to the public proactively or in response to an inquiry.
“Unit” refers to established entities other than Schools, such as the Office of the Provost, Libraries, Department of Athletics, Division of Student Affairs, etc., and departments and programs within.
Adopted: July 20, 2026