West Branch – Strategic Communication for Local Businesses

Undergraduate students in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication partnered with Main Street West Branch to support downtown businesses with strategic communications strategy and campaigns.


Authors: Andrea Arce, Mackenzie Fenwick, Tyler Horn, Anna Jermano, Sydney Libert, Jordan Luebchow, Kiersten Mann, Alexandra Mielke, Natalie Miller, Claire O’Donnell, Ella Ostermann, Sophie Reed, Elizabeth Smith, Josh Studer, Jasmyn Tran, Olivia Vald, Sydney Walters, Camryn Ward, Koby West, Grace Westergaard

Instructor: Rachel Young

Community project lead: Jessi Simon

College & department: College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, School of Journalism & Mass Communication

Course name & number: Strategic Communication Campaigns, JMC 3412/3420

Citation instructions


Project teams conducted situation analysis and research on best practices for small business social media. The group research included interviewing Man Street West Branch stakeholders as well as small businesses owners in West Branch. During the next stage of the project, project teams provided customized support for four small businesses in downtown West Branch (Herb N' Lous, Izzy's Treasures, Main Street Sweets, and Shop 121) as well as Main Street West Branch based on organizational needs. Deliverables included content calendars, templates for content, brand guides, and a newsletter template.

A group of students and community members stand smiling in front of Main Street, West Branch
Academic year
2025-2026
Partner
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