SC State University News Media Protocol
Purpose
South Carolina State University (SC State) values working relationships with news media and welcomes coverage that reflects the university’s mission, people, and programs. This protocol supports effective access while protecting the rights and safety of students, employees, and campus visitors.
Media Access and Requests
Advance Coordination
Media representatives should contact the Office of University & Media Relations before visiting campus. Early coordination helps:
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Schedule interviews with faculty, staff, or students
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Identify appropriate university spokespersons
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Arrange filming or photography locations
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Minimize disruption to campus activities
Access Limitations
As a public institution, SC State generally permits media access but may limit it
to avoid disruptions or ensure privacy and safety.
Official Statements and Interviews
All requests for university comment must go through the Office of University & Media Relations. Faculty and staff may speak as subject-matter experts, but only designated officials
may speak on behalf of the university.
Student Journalists
Students acting in a journalistic capacity — through student media, class assignments,
or internship s— must follow the same access procedures.
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Requests
Requests for public records must be submitted in writing in accordance with the South Carolina Freedom of Information Act. Send requests to:
Office of the General Counsel
South Carolina State University
Ko W. G. Donman Administration Building
300 College Street, NE
P.O. Box 7395
Orangeburg, SC 29117
ogc@scsu.edu
Include a clear description of the requested records and your contact information. The university will respond in accordance with timelines and fees permitted under state law.
Parking and Check-in
Parking
Media should park at the Ko W. G. Donman Administration Building unless otherwise directed. Media vehicles may not park on sidewalks, in handicap spaces (without permit), on lawns, or in no-parking
zones.
Check-in
Upon arrival, media should check in with the Office of University & Media Relations.
Privacy and Legal Compliance
SC State follows all applicable privacy laws, including:
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FERPA – Protects student education records
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HIPAA – Protects health information
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Employee confidentiality – Personnel records are protected under university policy
Media may not photograph, film, or interview anyone in classrooms, residence halls, or medical settings without prior approval.
Restricted Areas
The following areas are off-limits without prior written approval from the university:
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Felton Laboratory Charter School
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Child Development Learning Center
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Harold Powell Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic
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Bulldog Health & Wellness Hub
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Counseling and Self-Development Center
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Brooks Health Center
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All residence halls
Media may not enter, film, or photograph in or around these areas without authorization. No minors or adult clients may be recorded or interviewed without prior written consent from the university and, where applicable, a parent or guardian.
Campus Safety and Conduct
Tobacco-Free Campus
SC State prohibits smoking and tobacco use on all university-owned or leased property,
indoors and outdoors—including inside vehicles. This applies to students, employees,
visitors, and media representatives.
Firearms Policy
SC State is a gun-free campus. Only sworn law enforcement officers may carry firearms.
All others found with a weapon are subject to arrest and prosecution under state law.
External Regulations and Compliance
SC State complies with all applicable federal and state regulations, including:
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Public safety and law enforcement
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Facilities and airspace usage
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Academic and personnel privacy
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Public records access
Drone Use (FAA Regulations)
Use of drones or Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) over campus is prohibited without
prior written approval from both the university and the FAA.
Noncompliance
Failure to follow this protocol or applicable laws may result in removal from campus,
citation, or legal action.
Scope
This protocol applies to all media activity on SC State University property, including by student journalists.
Contact Information
| University Relations universityrelations@scsu.edu Ko W.G. Donma Administration Building Suite 100 Kay Snider Director of Marketing ksnider@scsu.edu 803-516-4935 |
Sam Watson Director of University Relations swatson2@scsu.edu 803-533-3603 (Office) 803-747-1223 (Mobile) Office of the General Counsel Ko W.G. Administration Building Room 213 ogc@scsu.edu 803-928-6740 |