Environmental Agency Receives Interactive Campaign from Elon Students

ELON, NC, February 16, 2013 (Press-News.org) Six students and two faculty members traveled from Elon University to Ericeira, Portugal to create a media campaign for Surfrider Foundation Ericeira, an environmental non-profit organization along Portugal's coast. The purpose of the campaign was to launch the organization as a validated and established group.

During the time spent abroad, the Elon University Interactive Media Master's students created publicity and general awareness for Surfrider Ericeira, working closely with the foundation to establish the website SurfriderEriceira.com, equipped with flash animations, stylized graphics and personalized documentaries. In addition, the group also launched a social media initiative and strategic marketing plan for increased engagement and credibility in the local community.

"I think the most challenging part of the project for the group was managing time wisely between enjoying Ericeira and getting tasks completed—Ericeira is absolutely breathtaking," said Iris Maslow, who served as project manager for the team of students. "I am excited for the opportunity we had to aid in Surfrider's mission and increase its activeness in the local community."

The local chapter of Surfrider Foundation in Ericeira was founded three months ago. The group is currently battling environmental crisis in Portugal, which has been flagged by the European Nation for having poor air quality and environmental noise. Through conservation, activism, research, and education, the organization seeks to raise awareness of the issues and teach the community of residents and tourists how to be more environmentally friendly.

During the time spent abroad, the students had the opportunity to target organizational needs and gain insight about Ericeira's history and Surfrider's role Some of the daily activities included beach cleanups, educating kids about pollution and bicycling around Portugal's revered landscape for footage and photographs.

About Surfrider Foundation Ericeira:
Surfrider Foundation Ericeira is a nonprofit organization based in Ericeira, Portugal, which protects the beaches between Sao Lourenco in the north and São Julião in the south. The organization is dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the areas oceans, waves and beaches for all people through conservation, activism, research and education. It is a voluntary chapter of Surfrider Foundation Europe.

About Elon University M.A. Interactive Media:

In the rapidly converging world of communications, Elon University's M.A. in Interactive Media prepares students to think strategically across media platforms. Delivered on campus in a state-of-the-art environment, this intensive 10-month, full-time graduate program includes hands-on production and theoretical courses coupled with a project for the public good, where students travel internationally each January. Elon.edu/imedia