Title: Communications & Public Relations Intern

Employee Classification: Clerical & Secretarial

Institution: System Office

Department: Marketing, Digital Strategy, and Public Relations

Campus Location: Tennessee Board of Regents System Office

Job Summary

The Public Relations and Journalism Intern will assist in researching, writing, and publishing stories about the TBR System Office, Tennessee Colleges of Applied Technology (TCATs), and community colleges that have regional or statewide impact.

The successful candidate will have the ability to develop compelling stories highlighting the successes of our system office and colleges, showcasing opportunities for students and communities. Writing will include, but is not limited to, press releases, features, and blogs, all crafted in accordance with AP style guidelines. The intern will craft e-newsletters for internal and external audiences and may provide assistance to the Communications Director with executive communications.

The intern will work alongside the Marketing, Digital Strategy, and Public Relations staff during key events to provide public relations support. This is an excellent opportunity to gain experience working with a professional staff in an enthusiastic higher education organization.

This position may have the opportunity to work remotely within the state of Tennessee but with periodic visits to the TBR System Office (Nashville, TN) at the employee’s expense.

Job Duties

• 50% - Writing press releases, feature articles, and blogs highlighting the TBR System Office, TCATs, and community colleges. This includes gathering information and conducting interviews with stakeholders such as faculty, staff, students, alumni, donors, and others. - (Essential)
• 20% - Crafting and distributing e-newsletters to both internal and external audiences. Updating media and recipient contact databases. - (Essential)
• 10% - Submitting articles and media pitches to media outlets for possible editorial coverage. Tracking press coverage using tools such as Cision, Google Alerts, and social listening platforms. - (Essential)
• 10% - Supporting TCATs and community colleges with their public relations and journalism needs. - (Marginal)
• 5% - Posting press releases, feature articles, and blog posts to the TBR website. - (Marginal)
• 5% - Follow project schedules set by the Director of Content & Public Relations. Ensure all tasks are completed professionally and on time. - (Essential)

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently hold or pursuing a degree or certificate in Public Relations, Communications, Journalism, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience writing media pitches, news articles, features, and blog posts.
• Familiarity with working alongside various media outlets.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience writing for higher education institutions.
• Familiarity with managing social media business accounts.
• Experience using tools like Cision, Google Alerts, or similar communication platforms.
• Experience with email marketing tools such as Emma, Mailchimp, etc.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Experience with the Microsoft Office Suite, preferably in a Mac environment.
• Demonstrated ability to write and edit content adhering to AP style guidelines, ensuring clarity and consistency across all communications.
• Excellent writing, grammar, and communication skills.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to prioritize accuracy in content and reporting.
• Proven organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to multitask, adapt to changes, and meet deadlines.
• Comfortable working in a team-oriented, professional environment.

Physical Demands / Working Conditions