Margot Emery, University of Tennessee

Agriculture,
an appreciation of good design, and effective communication all figured in the path that brought me to UTIA. Today those same elements combine in my work through a process called information architecture.The approach works from the user's perspective in developing and testing communications content. It's central to persuasive communication.

I joined the University of Tennessee Agricultural Experiment Station as a publications editor in September 1997. Although the title implies that I edited recurring publications, my focus was actually on marketing, media relations, writing, and producing short-run special reports, brochures, fliers, and other media. I also maintained the station's web site, producing online features and sites about station initiatives. The Institute's communications units reorganized in 2001, and the marketing and communications staff is now responsible for all segments of activity at the Institute. The work is rewarding and exciting and gives me the opportunity to help build awareness of a spectrum of activity in research, teaching, and extension, all focused on advancing agriculture and enhancing the life of Tennesseans. My responsibilities as senior writer/producer for the Institute take me into magazine editing and production, as well as an array of marketing projects.

My background includes stints in radio and television news, nonprofit, and for-profit communications and public relations, including for a Fortune 100 service corporation.

In my spare time, I enjoy entertaining an African Grey parrot, cycling, kayaking, hiking, and gardening.

You may contact me at (865) 974-7141, fax (865) 974-9433, or memery@tennessee.edu.