University of San Diego University Relations records, 1953-2010

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Summary

Title:
University of San Diego University Relations records
Dates:
1953-2010
Creators:
University of San Diego University Relations
Abstract:
The University of San Diego University Relations records document the functions of the University Relations department and its offices. These functions include publication design, editing, and final products; planning for activities and events; surveys and research on community relations; and fundraising activities.
Extent:
33 boxes (32 linear ft.)
Language:
English
Preferred citation:

[Folder Title], Box # Folder #, University of San Diego University Relations records, Copley Library, University of San Diego, Archives and Special Collections.

Background

Scope and content:

The University of San Diego University Relations department is the public face of the University of San Diego, administering the image of the university to students, parents, alumni, and the community. The University Relations records document the functions of the department and its offices. These records include planning and informational materials about community, university, and alumni events; designs and final versions of invitations and programs; campaign planning materials; information on community programs; some departmental meeting and retreat information. Also included is information gathered about local government officials and local government issues, as well as information pertaining to the Irvine Foundation Grant "Institutionalizing Cultural Diversity."

Biographical / historical:

According to the 1973 Western Association of Schools and Colleges accreditation report, the Office of University Relations was the first University-wide office for the merged University of San Diego. The goals for this office were to establish a strong fundraising program and to build a stronger community image. Dr. Gilbert Brown began as the first Director of University Relations in 1972, shortly thereafter becoming the Vice President for University Relations. Brown worked to build relationships with those outside the University. This endeavor included improving rapport with the community, building media relations, and fostering alumni relations. Brown served through 1978, then William Picket became Vice President until 1986. John McNamara served as Vice President for University Relations for 15 years until Msgr. Dan Dillabough became Vice President for Mission and Public Relations from 2001 to 2005. Tim O’Malley served for 12 years as Vice President for University Relations. In August 2018, Richard P. Virgin became the Vice President for University Advancement.

The work of the University Relations department has included planning for events; designing invitations and programs; creating and distributing news releases; compiling news about USD from various news outlets; implementing fundraising activities; administering alumni events; and planning and administering community activities and events. According to the 2004 University Relations website under Msgr. Dan Dillabough, “The role of university relations is exceptionally simple. We preserve and promote the university's story. We engage the community. We encourage giving. We create lifelong bonds.” In 2010, the message shifted slightly to identify the varied constituents University Relations served: “Whether you are a student discovering the community, an alum reconnecting with friends, a parent maneuvering a new role, or a journalist searching for answers, University Relations can help you make connections. And connections build relationships, which build friendships, which build the lifelong bonds that define our lives.”

Processing information:

This collection was processed by Ashley Toutain in 2019.

Arrangement:

The University Relations records are organized into seven series:

Series I. Departmental Records

Series II. Community Relations

Series II is further arranged into the following subseries:

  • A. Community Programs
  • B. Cultural Diversity
  • C. Government Relations

Series III. Development

Series IV. Events

Series IV is further arranged into the following subseries:

  • A. Records
  • B. Photographs

Series V. Public Relations

Series VI. Office of Publications

Series VI is further arranged into the following subseries:

  • A. Records
  • B. Photographs

Series VII. Photographs

Records in each series are arranged in alphabetical order. Unless otherwise noted, photographs are arranged in chronological order.

Accruals:

Accruals are expected.

Rules or conventions:
Finding aid prepared using Describing Archives: a Content Standard

About this collection guide

Collection Guide Author:
Finding aid prepared by Ashley Toutain
Date Prepared:
© 2019
Date Encoded:
2019

Access and use

Restrictions:

This collection is open for research.

Preferred citation:

[Folder Title], Box # Folder #, University of San Diego University Relations records, Copley Library, University of San Diego, Archives and Special Collections.

Location of this collection:
5998 Alcalá Park
San Diego, CA 92110 2492, US
Contact:
(619) 260-2730
spcoll@sandiego.edu
Website