How to Write a Graduation Announcement for the Local Paper
- 1). Check the masthead of the local newspaper or its website for the proper address to submit an announcement. Look for categories like "Press Releases," "Local Interest," or "Announcements." Don't be afraid to call and ask, if necessary.
- 2). Look up past graduation announcements in the paper's archives. Gather a list of the information points that got printed. Use those points to begin your draft.
- 3). Get the full names of the school, the degree or diploma, the presenting official and the graduate. You'll also need the date and location of the ceremony and any honors earned by the graduate. Don't forget the local connection, such as the graduate's parents' names.
- 4). Look for a human interest angle. If the grad played first chair oboe in the concert band while earning a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry, mention it. Add club affiliations, offices held, any future plans he may wish to share and the names of any notables at the ceremony.
- 5). Put together a first draft and then put it aside for a day or two. Reread it then and make any edits you feel will improve the document.
- 6). Have someone you trust look over the draft. A second pair of eyes often can catch errors the writer missed.
- 7). Prepare the final document. Include your full name and contact information in the signature block. Send it the same day as the graduation was held or first thing the next day.
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