top of page

Horizons Magazine

The Challenges
Prior to my arrival, the College had recently launched its first issue of Horizons Magazine. While the concept of a printed magazine was a novel approach to brand awareness for the College, the original publication lacked clear editorial direction or a strong voice/messaging due to an absence of communications insight and writing support. There was no formal production process in place which delayed the magazine's print, mailing and distribution dates causing key marketing and promotional opportunities to be missed.

The Solutions

  1. Create a well-defined editorial schedule and production timeline to include clear delegation of tasks and responsibilities for publication staff along with corresponding deadline dates.

  2. Identify theme and narrative in the initial publication planning stages. This theme should be clear and consistently carried out through all aspects of the magazine. All assets (written and visual) should align with this theme.

  3. Elevate the quality of storytelling and messaging through thoughtful and impactful writing. Lead the narrative with a bold use of words to artfully illustrate this next phase of the College's transformation.

  4. Employ professional writers to aid in producing high-quality and consistent messaging. 

  5. Collaborate with publication staff to ensure theme and messaging remain at the forefront throughout production process — visuals and photography; (i.e., content drives design)

  6. Produce an online digital magazine to engage with a market share that may not be in the magazine mailing distribution area; also allows for social sharing.
     

The Results

The highly acclaimed annual print and digital (horizons.com.edu) publication, Horizons Magazine highlights the people, projects and programs of College of the Mainland. Featuring captivating student and alumni success stories, program spotlights and other relevant news, the magazine is distributed directly in the mailboxes of homes throughout the COM service region as well as local businesses, schools, local officials and across the college campus (more than 100,000 copies). A premier promotional asset, Horizons Magazine now serves as a fundamental brand element in the College's marketing toolkit by shaping the voice of COM's storytelling and messaging. 

My Role

Editorial Director, Project Manager, Lead Writer, Copy Editor

© 2024 by Monique Sennet.  All rights reserved.

bottom of page