Towson University Graduate Directs Media Relations For Alma Mater
Gay Pinder is director of Media Relations at Towson University where she is primarily responsible for promoting the university, its programs, students, faculty and staff to local, national and international representatives.
Pinder has both an undergraduate and a master's degree in mass communication from Towson University.
What inspired you to enter the field of media relations/communications?
"I have a photo of myself at about two years old holding a camera and a radio, so I think I was destined to enter the field of communication. I can't remember a time I was not fascinated by communicating."
How does your educational background relate to your current role?
"My education at Towson has been my foundation for the position I have now. As a student in the 1980s, the Mass Communication Department encompassed film and television production, so I studied journalism, PR, radio, video, and film production."
"I learned here how to think critically and that alone has made me stand out in this competitive field."
"Also, because of my outstanding education at Towson, I've had the opportunity to work in news and non-fiction television which taught me what media outlets are looking for. I know a good story when I see it, and I know how to pitch it to attract media attention."
How has your education helped to further your career and contributed to your success?
"The research skills I learned in school launched my career in television because I made my living researching various topics for television programs. My education gave me the knowledge and confidence to pursue working as a non-fiction television producer. I used my technical knowledge of production and my academic knowledge to produce popular and even some award-winning programming. My education has now allowed me to return to Towson where I find every possible opportunity to let people know how great TU is."
What is some advice you can offer others looking to go into media relations/communications?
"Whether you are looking for a career in film and TV or a career in PR, I'd say learn as much as you can about everything you can. Having a broad knowledge of many things can only be an asset. Never stop learning."
Susan Brown originally spent many years in banking/finance before confronting her addictions. She has now been in recovery for 20 years.
Primary interests include metaphysics and energy healing in which she has several certifications. She has written for Examiner.com since 2009 and also writes for Om Times. Sue lives in Baltimore.
