Newswise and Simpson Communications are teaming up to offer StratCommNet, a new forum for higher-education communication leaders to discuss strategic issues, specifically crisis communications and integrated marketing in higher education.

StratCommNet is designed to create a community of higher-education communications professionals who are involved at the strategic level in shaping institution reputations. StratCommNet brings this community together with an email listserve, a website and a newsletter.

The New York Times reported in January that 42 states were in deficit spending as legislatures convened, and two of three of these states were projected to cut higher-ed budgets. These dismal statistics mandate that we all do a better job telling our success story in higher ed; many of us have learned that marketing is the strategic answer to enhance the image, reputation and visibility of your institution. We believe we all can learn from each other by sharing common problems and solutions. Effective crisis communications has become essential. Witness the travails at many of our nations' top colleges and universities, which are embroiled in crises ranging from sexual harassment to NCAA violations to campus violence and binge drinking. How well these institutions respond in times of crisis will shape their images short- and long-term.

That led us to StratCommNet. Our goal is to provide timely information and provoke discussions on current crises and marketing issues and how best to handle these. The website will archive much of this information to make it to the "go-to site" on the Web for information on how to handle a crisis or enhance your marketing capabilities.