How to Write a Graduation Announcement for the Local Paper
The graduation of a loved one is a special occasion that is best shared via the local press.
Before deciding on a local newspaper to use, don't forget extended family members who may live in other parts of the world and possibly miss the announcement. Once you have decided on how and where you want the announcement to appear, writing and submitting the announcement to the press is a simple task.
- Contact news publishers and inquire about different cost and size options before you start writing the announcement. Some newspapers have an online form you can fill out to make things easier for both you and them. Ask about photos, character counts, cutoff dates, formatting or any other rules that will affect the appearance of your announcement.
- Shop around and compare different rates if there are different newspapers to choose from. Look at the daily and sunday circulation numbers and the cost for multiple days. Many papers now have both print and online versions which can affect readership numbers considerably. Some large newspapers will only print announcements in their regional editions. Some will publish them in article format if it appears to be a news-worthy story but most will treat it like an advertisement and charge you accordingly.
- Start by compiling a list of basic information you want included in the announcement and putting together a rough draft. Remember that the graduate's privacy may be important, so don't include anything that might seem too personal. Some schools provide a downloadable announcement template on their website.
- Proofread and check all grammar and spelling at least twice and have other readers give their final input before sending it off to the publisher.
- Include important details. Below is a list of items to consider when writing your announcement:
- Full name of student
- Hometown and state
- Family information
- Name and background of school or university
- Date, time, and location of commencement
- Type of degree
- Honors and awards
- Majors and minors
- Sports and athletic acheivements
- Sorority/Fraternity affiliations
- Student exchange travel
- Volunteer work
- Grade point averages
- Career, education, or travel plans