Media Relations Guidelines

Marymount University welcomes inquiries from members of the news media and values opportunities to share the achievements of our students, faculty, staff, and alumni. The Office of Marketing & Communications (OMC) serves as the primary liaison for all media requests. Our goal is to provide accurate, timely, and transparent information while ensuring that campus life, academic instruction, and the privacy of our community members are respected.

Our Faculty Experts

Marymount faculty are leading scholars and practitioners who combine academic rigor with real-world expertise to provide informed commentary, research collaboration, and subject-matter insights—helping shape workforce-ready leaders and a more inclusive world. Faculty experts from a wide range of disciplines are available for interviews.

General Guidelines

Filming and Photography

  • News Media: all filming, photography, and interviews – whether conducted inside campus buildings or outside – must be arranged through and approved by OMC.
  • Commercial Productions: commercial, documentary, or non-news filming requires advance written approval, a signed agreement, proof of insurance, and, in some cases, location fees. Requests should be submitted to OMC.
  • Restricted Areas: filming or photography is not permitted in residence halls, health or counseling facilities, classrooms during instruction, or other private spaces without approval by OMC and a staff escort if necessary.

Campus Events

  • Media are welcome to attend campus events where press coverage is explicitly invited.
  • For all other campus events – including lectures, forums, performances, etc. – media must receive permission from OMC before attending, filming, or photographing.

Athletics

Parking and Logistics

  • Media vehicles must be parked legally and may not block fire lanes, sidewalks, or building access. Parking arrangements should be coordinated with OMC in advance.

Privacy and Legal Compliance

Marymount University is committed to protecting the privacy of its students, faculty, and staff. Media representatives must comply with all federal and state privacy laws, including the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), which prohibits disclosure of student academic records without consent.

Contact

For all media requests or questions about this policy, please contact the Office of Marketing & Communications at or 703-284-3843.

FAQs

Can I come to campus and film or take photos without notifying Marymount?

Answer
No. As a private institution, all media activity on Marymount’s campus – inside or outside – requires prior approval from the Office of Marketing & Communications.

Can I interview students, faculty, or staff directly?

Answer
All interview requests must be coordinated through OMC. We will help identify and connect you with the appropriate sources, including our faculty experts.

Can I film or photograph inside campus buildings?

Answer
Only with prior approval from OMC. Filming or photography in residence halls, health or counseling facilities, classrooms during instruction, or other private spaces is prohibited without approval by OMC. If approved, a staff escort will be necessary.

What about outdoor areas?

Answer
Outdoor filming and photography on campus also requires permission from OMC. We will advise you on approved locations and any logistical requirements.

Are there fees for filming at Marymount?

Answer
News coverage is not subject to fees. Commercial, documentary, or non-news filming may involve location fees, insurance requirements, and a signed agreement. These requests must be submitted to and approved by OMC..

Can I cover an athletics event?

Answer
Access is managed by the Marymount Athletics communications office. OMC can coordinate as needed.

What if I want to cover a public lecture, performance, or event?

Answer
If media are specifically invited to an event, advance notice is not required but is encouraged. For all other events, please contact OMC before attending to confirm approval and any restrictions on filming or equipment.

What if I need parking or special access for equipment?

Answer
Please notify OMC in advance so we can provide guidance on parking and logistics. Media vehicles must be parked legally and may not block fire lanes, sidewalks, or building entrances.