Dear Colleagues,

Our roots in this community date back to 1783 to the chartering of our parent institution, the Academy of Richmond County. Although we have a long history, we can never take for granted that the community at large knows and understands our mission. As a public institution in the University System of Georgia, we exist to provide higher education for this region of the state. And we do it exceptionally well.

A quick look through the pages of local newspapers, however, reveals a number of advertisements by other universities seeking students in the CSRA. Many offer classes locally; others, assisted by advances in technology, offer classes online.

In this new competitive climate, it is imperative that we increase our efforts to let the community know what we are and what we have to offer.

That’s why the President’s Advisory Council made marketing a strategic initiative three years ago with an overall goal of enhancing the university’s image as a first-class university offering quality education with a personal touch. By increasing the community’s knowledge of the university, we can be assured that Augusta State University will be recognized by the characteristics that make us distinct from other universities—outstanding faculty, small classes, personal attention from faculty, and first rate facilities.

Successful marketing will require a commitment from all of us as we set about the business of image enhancement. An important element of marketing is the presentation of a unified, clearly distinct image. The style guide will assist in establishing a clear and distinct voice for the university. I encourage you to use this guide and apply the standards to university communications.

We create our image—not only through advertisements and media coverage but with the letters we send, the publications we produce, the way we answer our phones, and the ways in which we relate to our students and community. Augusta State University is an exceptional place with exceptional faculty, staff, and students. All of us share and contribute to our institutional image—whatever that image is. I hope you will help in the effort to create a new awareness of Augusta State University within the CSRA and the state.

Sincerely,

President