Fundamentals of Working with the Media

Posted on February 29, 2024

Fundamentals of Working with the Media
March 19, 2024, 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. EST
Virgie Townsend, JD, Director of Public Relations , Strategic Communications

Register to receive Zoom access information:
https://upstate.zoom.us/meeting/register/tJUvcOqgqDIiHNaEE154XqqKMtzSQ91XlILE

This interactive presentation will cover the fundamentals of working with the news media, including how to prepare for phone, virtual, and in-person interviews with TV, print/online, and radio/podcast reporters. Virgie Townsend, JD, Director of Public Relations at Strategic Communications, will discuss and review:

  • An overview of today’s 24/7 media, including the role that web and social media play
  • Understanding of news reporters and editors, and how they approach their jobs
  • Key attributes of an effective organization spokesperson
  • Best practices and specific “dos and don’ts” for media interviews, including how to handle in-person versus virtual interviews
  • Key phrases that help spokespersons stay on track with a company’s key messages

Speaker Bio

Virgie Townsend, JD, is the Director of Public Relations at Strategic Communications, a Central New York public relations agency founded on strategy, integrity, and communication. She provides public relations services and oversight to clients, as well as direction and oversight to other members of the team. With deep expertise in healthcare and biotech communications, Virgie previously held roles at a life sciences public relations agency, national public health nonprofit, bio/med trade association, and global medical device manufacturer. Beyond her professional focus, she is passionate about biotech innovation as the family member of a cancer patient who benefitted from a clinical trial.

As a journalist and essayist, Virgie’s writing has been featured in The New York Times, Washington Post, Chicago Tribune, Harper’s Bazaar, The Sun Magazine, and other publications. Virgie received a bachelor’s degree in newspaper journalism, magna cum laude, from the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University and a J.D. from the Syracuse University College of Law. She is a bar-admitted attorney in Colorado. In 2021, the Central New York Business Journal recognized Virgie as one of its 40 Under Forty Awards honorees.

CenterState CEO

Other Member News

Broadway in Syracuse
July 26, 2024

TICKETS FOR CAMERON MACKINTOSH’S ACCLAIMED PRODUCTION OF BOUBLIL AND SCHÖNBERG’S LES MISÉRABLES WILL GO ON SALE JULY 29TH AT 10AM

This reborn dream of a production looks and sounds fresher than ever. Sends shivers of excitement racing down the spine - You emerge feeling stirred and exhilarated.

Logo for Dannible & McKee, LLP
July 25, 2024

Dannible & McKee, LLP Announces the Promotion of 18 Professionals

The commitment to excellence from these 18 professionals is well demonstrated, and we congratulate them on their achievements.

Park Strategies Managing Director Featured in syracuse.com Article on New York's Cannabis Industry Rollout
July 24, 2024

Park Strategies Managing Director Featured in syracuse.com Article on New York's Cannabis Industry Rollout

His advocacy, born from an understanding of coalition-building and decision-making, has been influential amid many regulatory challenges.

Forbes Best Employers for Women logo
July 23, 2024

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield Recognized by Forbes as One of America’s Best Employers for Women 2024

This award highlights the organization’s ongoing commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where women can thrive and advance their careers.

Ashley McGraw Architects
July 23, 2024

Ashley McGraw Architects Acquires studioMLA Architects, A National Leader in Early Education Design

Founded in 2006, studioMLA Architects is recognized as a national leader in the design of early education facilities along with nature-inspired playscapes for young children.

Mike Becallo
July 23, 2024

Michael Becallo Joins Oswego Health as Community Relations Representative

Originally from Cicero, Becallo is well-routed in CNY and brings over 15 years of healthcare experience.

Kate Weidman, Deputy Executive Director, AURORA of CNY
July 19, 2024

AURORA of CNY Announces Leadership Changes

Weidman will transition into the role of Executive Director following the retirement of current Executive Director Debra Chaiken, ensuring a seamless succession in leadership.

Credit Score 101
July 17, 2024

Credit Score 101 - Everything You Need to Know

Understanding and managing your credit score is a key step towards achieving financial stability and success. 

Larry Bousquet
July 16, 2024

Crouse Health Board of Directors Welcomes Two New Members

The Crouse Health Board of Directors has appointed two new directors.