Ohio University Multimedia Society (OUMS)

The Ohio University Multimedia Society (OUMS) is a student-run organization based in Athens, United States, that provides public relations and communications services primarily to local nonprofits, campus initiatives, and small businesses in the Appalachian Ohio region. Founded in 2001, OUMS operates as a collaborative learning environment where students from all disciplines at Ohio University gain hands-on experience in strategic communication. The group serves as a bridge between academic theory and professional practice, offering affordable communications support to organizations that might not otherwise have access to such resources.

How the Ohio University Multimedia Society Helps Clients

OUMS functions as a practical training ground where students develop real-world skills while delivering tangible results for clients. The society's structure allows members to work in teams on communications projects, from drafting press releases to developing multimedia content. Unlike traditional agencies, OUMS emphasizes peer learning and professional development, with weekly meetings featuring industry guest speakers and workshops. The organization also organizes networking trips to major media hubs like New York, Chicago, and Washington D.C., where members visit outlets such as Rolling Stone, The New York Times, and NPR. This exposure ensures that clients benefit from fresh, current thinking informed by industry best practices.

Services Offered by OUMS

While the Ohio University Multimedia Society does not publish a formal service menu, its student-led structure naturally supports a range of public relations and communications tasks. Based on the organization's focus on multimedia and digital trends, typical services include:

• Press release writing and media distribution
• Social media content creation and management
• Basic graphic design for flyers and digital assets
• Event promotion and coverage
• Multimedia production (video, photography, podcasts)
• Media monitoring and basic analytics
• Internal communications support for campus groups

These services are typically offered at low or no cost, making OUMS an accessible option for organizations with limited budgets. The society's members bring diverse academic backgrounds—from journalism to visual communication—allowing for multidisciplinary approaches to client challenges.

Location and Community Focus

Based in Athens, Ohio, in the United States, OUMS serves the local community of Athens County and the wider Ohio University campus. The organization's location in southeastern Ohio places it in a region with limited access to professional communications agencies, making its services particularly valuable for area nonprofits and small businesses. The society's ties to Ohio University also mean clients can tap into university resources, including research databases and faculty expertise. While OUMS primarily operates locally, its members' networking trips and industry connections bring a broader perspective to client work.

The Ohio University Multimedia Society (OUMS) is best suited for organizations that need affordable, student-driven communications support and are comfortable working with a team that prioritizes learning alongside service delivery. Local nonprofits, campus departments, and small businesses in Athens and surrounding communities will find OUMS a practical partner for projects that require fresh ideas and multimedia skills. The society is also a good fit for clients who value contributing to student development and want to engage with the next generation of communications professionals. For organizations seeking low-cost, flexible communications assistance with a collaborative, educational approach, OUMS offers a unique and accessible option in the Athens area.