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General Guidelines for the Public Announcement of Major NSERC Awards
Since major NSERC awards present valuable public relations opportunities for
universities, colleges, and corporate and government sponsors, NSERC recommends
a careful planning approach to award announcements and their associated events
(e.g., receptions, press conferences, news releases, etc.).
The following information and suggestions are intended for applicants who
have just been awarded a major grant:
- Public announcements should be planned
in close consultation with NSERC. Unless there are
exceptional circumstances, they should not occur
until all NSERC award conditions have been met.
- Scheduling the participation of senior representatives
from different organizations can be a challenge.
We strongly recommend building plenty of time into
the planning process. NSERC normally requires six
weeks' minimum notice. While Council or staff representation
is desirable at all announcements of major awards,
this is not always possible.
- NSERC participation in public events
will be coordinated through the NSERC Creative Services.
Contact by telephone: 613-992-3231; facsimile: 613-943-0742;
or e-mail: events@nserc.ca.
- The applicant should make an initial assessment
of the public relations interest and potential.
This should be conducted in consultation with all
the corporate and government sponsors, and with
the university's communications or external relations
department. Is public relations a priority for this
award? Do the sponsors want publicity at this time?
What is the potential news angle, if any? What type
of event is appropriate? A simple reception? A formal
press conference? Just a news release? Who will
be responsible for the organization of the event
and costs?
- For major awards, NSERC is required to brief the
Minister of Industry. The involvement of federal
or provincial politicians invokes special protocol
consideration and puts extra demands on the planning
process. NSERC must be consulted before any invitations
are extended or event dates set.
- NSERC reserves the right to review drafts of public
releases and background material. We may be able
to correct an error or suggest a useful addition.
This also applies to awards where we have no representative
present.
- NSERC's name should appear in the formal title
of research Chairs. Furthermore, if we are the major
contributor, we will expect our name to appear first,
e.g., "the NSERC/sponsor Chair in..."
NSERC reserves the right of approval of all titles.
- NSERC values the feedback it receives after each
event. Tell us which things worked and which didn't.
We also appreciate receiving copies of any news
coverage. This information is very helpful for the
planning of future events. In return, we will share
our knowledge and experience with you.
- If you require more information, or wish to discuss
announcement of an award, please contact us at 613-992-3231.
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