General Guidelines
Content should be posted with the understanding that it may be redistributed through the Internet and other media channels and may be viewed by the general public. Even if deleted or modified, older versions may continue to exist online. Content should not be posted unless it furthers the University’s mission. Share only information that is appropriate for the public.
Social media platforms should not be used to post detailed policy or procedural information to avoid discrepancies and minimize the need for updating. Instead, users should be directed to official Mississippi College websites, electronic resources, or publications for such information.
Content directed at individual fans or page users should be written respectfully. Content should never be written in a manner that can be interpreted as combative, demeaning, or otherwise harmful.
Content should not be posted unless it is clearly suitable for all ages and audiences.
Guidelines for University Employees
Employees participating in social media must adhere to the personnel standards of personal conduct, unacceptable behaviors, and the use of the University’s resources as they apply equally to the use of social media. Content must protect student information as well as information that is non-public or intended for university officials only. Interacting with students, parents, alumni, donors, and other university constituents should be done professionally, as expected in the workplace.
Compliance with Identity Manual
Use of Mississippi College marks, such as logos and graphics, should comply with the Mississippi College identity manual, available online at https://www.mc.edu/brand. Contact the Office of Marketing and Communication for assistance in creating account profile pictures or avatars.
Profile & Cover Photos
Social media account profiles and cover photos are subject to approval by the Social Media Committee and Office of Marketing and Communication. Contact the Office of Marketing and Communication for assistance in creating profile photos, cover photos, or other social media collateral.
Copyrighted Content
Rights and permissions must be secured before posting, sharing, or distributing copyrighted materials, including but not limited to: music, art, copyrighted photographs or texts, portions of the copyrighted video, or information considered proprietary by a University partner, vendor, affiliate, or contractor.
Commercial Use
Endorsing commercial products or services is not permitted.
Terms of Use
Mississippi College's social media accounts must comply with each social media channel’s terms of use.
Political Campaigning
Because of the University's non-profit status, there are prohibitions against using University resources to support individual candidates or parties in a political campaign.
Student Privacy
Do not post confidential or proprietary information about Mississippi College or its students, employees, or alumni. Employees must follow the applicable federal requirements outlined in FERPA (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act) and HIPAA (Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act), as well as NCAA (National Collegiate Athletic Association) regulations.
Support/Training
If you have any questions about the proper use of a Mississippi College Social Media Account, please contact the Office of Marketing and Communication. Contact the MC Social Media Coordinator for training on the usage of specific social media channels. For contact information and more details, see www.mc.edu/social.
