Council for Opportunity in Education

TRIO Media Relations Handbook

Whether you’re planning a student rally, pitching a feature story, or preparing a local op-ed, the newly updated TRIO Media Relations Handbook equips TRIO professionals, alumni, and advocates with the tools to elevate our message—and protect our programs.

Your New Go-To Guide for Raising TRIO’s Visibility Nationwide

Whether you’re new to media engagement or a seasoned storyteller, this handbook will help you speak boldly and act strategically to ensure TRIO’s story reaches the audiences who matter most.

This practical, action-oriented guide walks you through how to effectively work with the media to ensure TRIO’s impact is seen, heard, and understood at the local and national level. Download your copy today and start building a louder, smarter media presence for TRIO.

Inside the Handbook, You’ll Find:

  • Best Practices for Working with Journalists: Build relationships with local reporters, craft compelling story pitches, and land coverage that moves decision-makers.
  • How to Write and Place an Op-Ed: Step-by-step instructions for writing a persuasive piece, plus a sample op-ed focused on TRIO funding and first-gen access.
  • Student Story Templates: Gather student and alumni testimonials that resonate with audiences and demonstrate TRIO’s real-world impact.
  • Sample Soundbites and Messaging Tips: Media-ready quotes to help you shine in interviews, speeches, and elevator conversations with policymakers.
  • Templates for Press Releases, Advisories & Event Plans: Everything you need to publicize TRIO events, campus visits, and success stories.
  • Social Media Toolkit: Strategies and sample posts to boost engagement and spotlight your students’ success.
  • Crisis Communications and Tracking Success: Be ready when tough news hits—and know how to measure and share the results of your outreach.
DOWNLOAD THE TOOLKIT

News & Impact

More than 860,000 low-income, first-generation students and students with disabilities — from sixth grade through college graduation — are served by over 3,400 programs nationally.