The media does not recognize the range of non-traditional students and the opportunities for them. General perceptions held by the media outside Eugene concerning the UO are less negative than indifferent. The scramble for scarce resources masks the diversity of our offerings leading to a public perception of limited diversity and breadth of offerings to the students and public, as well as masking the University's need to not only maintain but encourage diversity. The standing of our programs and excellence of our contributions in research is better known nationally than in-state. National prominence in many disciplines has not translated to recognition by students and Oregonians of the University's quality.
Constituencies are fragmented and perceptions differ according to interests.
A single program of information will not reach music fans, sports fans, political junkies, local citizens and politicians, high school counselors and others effectively. Create a University of Oregon extension structure to provide services to a wider area of the state and build a broad state-wide constituency. Identify our good activities and promote them. Isolate our weak activities and improve them. Define the role of the Alumni Association, UO Foundation, Legislative Relations, president, faculty, etc., in shaping public perception.