Lorenzo J.

Ricci 10/15/20

PR Homework Ethics of University Reopening

One of the most fundamental aspects of Public Relations is the truth. Now, while this may not

always seem like the case, it should be at the forefront of all PR specialists minds that honesty is

always the best policy. In the era of COIVD-19, no one is quite sure of what will work and what

will not work. That being said, there are some things that are strongly considered to be the wrong

move in this worldwide crisis.

In the case of this university, if I was the communications director, I would invoke my

responsibility to be truthful as public relations for the school. Since I do not believe one hundred

percent that this plan really is safe, then I can not go out to the public and tell them all that it is

safe. However, that does not mean that the school needs to abandon all hope of having students

one campus this semester. Instead, I would suggest that the school administration goes about

creating a hybrid model for the school, that offers students the choice of whether to take in

person classes or come to campus.

Of course, this approach is not cheap, however, the cost of opening and then closing the

school if the virus spreads is not cheap either. Having the option of online learning with the

promise of also having in person classes shows to the community that the college can be a safe

place, but also that it understands those who may not feel comfortable attending in person. Plus,

with a hybrid plan in place, the equipment for all online learning is in place in the event it is

needed. This shows that the school is prepared and aware that this virus is unpredictable and that

everyone should be ready or anything. It is very important with this plan to push ahead of time
that the students on campus are responsible for following rules on campus and the can help make

sure that they get a full semester in person.