Communications Report

1 It was another unique year for Upper New York Communications filled with digital events, distance

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learning, and trying to understand how to best do ministry in a world so impacted by COVID-19. That said, there were many learnings from the previous year of life with COVID-19 that allowed us to grow and improve as we continued to face many of the same challenges. Furthermore, all the hard work put in responding to COVID-19 was recognized both by local churches seeking support and even by other 6 communicators around the United Methodist Connection. 7 8 In fact, at the annual gathering of the United Methodist Association of Communicators, the Upper New 9 York Communications Team was recognized as best in class for our COVID-19 response. While being 10 recognized by peers is always appreciated, the greater satisfaction is in the individuals and churches who 11 12 were helped and were able to continue their ministry in new and exciting ways as a result of the response.

13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 The Digital Annual Conference that took place in 2021 was also greatly improved over the one that happened in 2020. This was in part because a new vendor, GNTV was used and in part because much had been learned at the previous digital Annual Conference. It is hoped that we will be able to return to an inperson format in the coming year, but if not, it is certain that another Digital Annual Conference will be even better.

Another focus that began last year was being clear about the Conference focus and the history that got us to where we are today. The website has been restructured to make our focus the most important information and readily available. There are also many communications pieces that have and will continue to go deeper on this important part of our lives together

Throughout all these challenges, successes, and learnings, all regular Conference communication channels remained uninterrupted, including:

• The Advocate • The Weekly Digest • UNY Notes • The Bridge • The Conference Website • Conference Social Media interactions • Various as-needed communications

As it becomes clear things will not simply “go back to normal” the Communications Team continues to lead the way in learning to do vibrant ministry while living with COVID-19. It is likely the coming year will see many more challenges, but the Communications Team will continue to be sure the story is told, and our ministries together may continue.

Submitted by: Stephen Hustedt, Dir. of Communications