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The Office of Public Affairs is comprised of two departments: Communications and Government and Community Affairs.

Columbia University Communications
Communications

Communications serves as the voice of Columbia, telling the University story as a global research and teaching institution to a range of audiences, including our neighbors in Upper Manhattan. We help craft and execute the overall communications strategy of the University to further the priorities of the president and trustees. 

Community Day at Manhattanville
Government and Community Affairs

Government and Community Affairs is Columbia’s primary liaison with federal, state, and local government, as well as with residents, community leaders, and civic organizations in the neighborhood. We have special responsibilities with the Manhattanville Campus and the West Harlem Community Benefits Agreement.

Meet Shailagh J. Murray

 

Shailagh J. Murray is the executive vice president for public affairs. Before joining Columbia, she spent nearly six years shaping communications strategy inside the Obama White House. She has also worked as a journalist for major media outlets.

Our Products

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Columbia Neighbors

Columbia Neighbors is a resource guide and a news hub for the communities near our campuses in Upper Manhattan.

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Columbia News

Columbia News, an online publication, covers news, research, and announcements from across the University. 

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Columbia Sites

Modern, affordable, easy-to-use websites with free training, a user guide, and office hours.

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Identity Guidelines

Review University branding and identity guidelines to be sure your project is in compliance.

Our Programs and Initiatives

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A'Lelia Bundles Community Scholars

The A'Lelia Bundles Community Scholars program offers independent, local scholars access to Columbia resources to complete a project or develop skills.

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Community Advisory Council

Government and Community Affairs oversees this institution-wide initiative in support of Harlem and Upper Manhattan.

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Columbia Community Service

Columbia Community Service supports local nonprofits through the generosity of faculty, staff, and retirees of Columbia, Barnard, and Teachers College.

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Constitution Day

Each year on September 17, Government and Community Affairs celebrates the signing of the U.S. Constitution with programming and opportunities to observe the day.

Our Services

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Columbia Creative

Get high-quality print and web marketing materials and, for those on the Morningside campus, free branding services.

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SEO and Analytics Research

We offer search engine optimization and analytics research that can identify problems with search results and help refine your content.

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Photography

Special events, head shots, and creative photo shoots for your print and digital communications vehicles.

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Video Services

To document your news, faculty research, and events, contact the video team.

Connect With Colleagues

Sign up for WeConnect, a listserv group made up of communications and marketing professionals from across Columbia's campuses. Once you are on the WeConnect listserv, you'll receive information about important events, communication workshops, job postings, and best practices. You'll also be able to share news from your division with the group.