June/July 2001
Issue

Phi Theta Kappa Headquarters receives dozens of chapter newsletters every month. These newsletters range from 10-page color publications to one-paragraph electronic correspondences.

With over 1,200 chapters internationally, we know that each chapter has its own unique format and structure for newsletters. While no two newsletters are the same, some of the best have developed innovative solutions to common publishing problems. Remember these solutions before you send out your next newsletter!

Problem: By the time our newsletter is published and received by members, the information we have included is outdated. The more recent information goes unpublished until the next month and then it is outdated as well. How can we stop this cycle?

Solution: The key to keeping your members informed on new or breaking chapter news is a weekly or biweekly electronic mailing list. Using this communication tool, you can continuously update members with up-to-the-minute information while still publishing your all-inclusive monthly newsletter.

Problem: No matter what we do our newsletter seems drab or lacks an element of fun. What are some things that we can do to make our newsletter more enjoyable?

Solution: Create a layout that is aesthetically pleasing and draws the reader in for more. Add pictures of Hallmark activities and Five Star projects. If at all possible, use color! Another fun idea is to provide games, cartoons, jokes, or puzzles that relate to the different Hallmarks of the Society.

Problem: Members always know when an orientation or induction ceremony will be held, but they don’t know which students are eligible for membership. Is it feasible to place eligible students’ names and contact information in our newsletter?

Solution: While it is not a good idea to publish the contact information for each eligible student, it is a good idea to place the name and major of each eligible student in your chapter newsletter. This way, members in a particular major can personally invite eligible students who are of the same major. This will allow eligible students to ask questions and receive positive feedback.

ATTENTION CHAPTER OFFICERS:
Send your chapter newsletters and other correspondences to

Tracy Thomas-Wade
Chapter Officer Coordinator

Phi Theta Kappa Center for Excellence
1625 Eastover Drive
Jackson, MS 39211

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