Using vlogging and blogging for advocacy: The Patton College offers free summit

Photo courtesy of: The Patton College of EducationParticipants at the 2016 Advocacy & Leadership Summit discuss topics

The Patton College of Education's 7th Annual Advocacy & Leadership Summit will be held Oct. 22 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. in McCracken Hall 105. The theme of the Summit is "Speak Up & Speak Out! Advocacy through Vlogging and Blogging."

“This is a wonderful opportunity for Ohio University students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members,” said Connie Patterson, assistant dean for Academic Engagement & Outreach. “Anyone with an interest in blogging or vlogging is strongly encouraged to attend this event.”

Nicole Phillips, who authored "Kindness is Contagious," will speak at the summit. She will discuss her Kindness Blog, her blogging background, and how to overcome common blogging blunders and pitfalls. She will also discuss her personal life and how her story has inspired her work.

A former Miss Wisconsin, Phillips graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1997 with a bachelor’s degree in broadcast journalism. She worked as a television anchor and reporter in Milwaukee, Madison, and Fargo, North Dakota, and currently writes a weekly column for The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead, a newspaper in Fargo.

Phillips, who is married to Ohio University men’s basketball coach Saul Phillips, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. Their 13-year-old daughter, Jordan, designed “Cozys for the Cure” to raise money for breast cancer, and her products are now sold in Walmart outlets across the country.

“Nicole has an incredible story," said Patterson, "one that I think will resonate with the audience."

Beth Backes, director of Online Programs and the Curriculum Technology Center, will also speak at the summit. She will lead the audience through the world of vlogging and explain how it can effectively advance a cause or message. All summit attendees will have the opportunity to create a vlog before departing.

“This will be a thought-provoking and interactive day,” said Patterson. “Anyone who attends will benefit.”

To RSVP for this free event, please fill out this online form. Breakfast and lunch will be provided.

Photo courtesy of: The Patton College of EducationParticipants at the 2016 Advocacy & Leadership Summit