Oral History Project FAQs

Have a question about Rivier's Oral History Project? Review this list of frequently-asked questions about this 90th anniversary initiative.

1.   I received an email/postcard/phone call asking for my personal information and a story about Rivier University. Tell me more about the project.

We have partnered with PCI (also known as Publishing Concepts) to produce an Oral History Publication for Rivier University. PCI is a family-owned business based in Dallas, TX that has published directories for educational institutions, fraternities, sororities, and military organizations across the nation for over 100 years. This project allows us to hear about your personal experiences from your time at Rivier and how your experience helped shape your life. And, while we have you on the phone, we want to make sure your contact information is up to date.

 

2.   How does Rivier University benefit from this project?

In a few different ways:

  • Updated Information – allows us to effectively communicate with and engage alumni
  • Legacy – sharing and collecting stories preserves the history of our school
  • Pride – wearing apparel shows support and love for our school

 

3.   How do I know my information will only be used for Oral History Project purposes?

PCI is committed to protecting your information. The names, addresses and information provided to PCI for the publication of the Oral History Project will be held confidential by PCI, except to the extent that they are utilized in, or in the preparation of, the Oral History Project. Upon completion of the project, PCI will redact PII (Personal Identifiable Information) from any and all electronic files that we have supplied or were produced by PCI in connection with the production of the Oral History Project.

 

4.   I would like to verify or update my information and share a story. How may I do this?

  • If you have received a postcard or an email with a  telephone number, you may call the number to speak with a dedicated representative for the Oral History Project. The representative will verify all the information we have on file for you, make any updates where needed, and then ask you to share your story about your time at Rivier. Your story will be recorded, and the sound clip provided to the University at the conclusion of the project.
  • If you have received an email with an embedded link, you may go to the online site to review your information and submit a story.
  • If you did not receive a postcard or email, you may call the dedicated Rivier University update line at 1-877-333-6610.

 

5.   Can I choose what information prints on the publication?

The only information that is included in the publication is your name, class year and degree, along with your story and photo. No contact information is printed. When you call to update your contact information, it will only be used to update your alumni record at Rivier. You may revoke consent for your story and/or photo to appear any time before October 21, 2022 by contacting PCI’s customer service helpdesk at 1-800-982-1590 / customerservice@publishingconcepts.com.

 

6.   Is my story guaranteed to be published in the print book?

We look forward to printing as many stories as we can in the print book. Depending on the response, we may need to limit the number that can be included and preference would be given to those who purchase a copy of the book.

 

7.   Can I review my story before it is published?

Yes! If your story is published in the hardbound book, you will receive an email with a link to review your written story. You can review your story, make edits, and upload a photo.

 

8.   Will the audio recording of my story be used?

You will be sent a link to download the audio of your recording for your personal use. Per your consent, your audio will be available on the digital version of the publication for others to listen to, and available to the University for use.

 

9.   I updated my information but need some more time to think about what experience to share.

You can call back at any time before October 21, 2022, to share your story.

 

10.   I shared a story and the representative said I could send a photo. How do I do this?

You will receive an email with a link to upload one photo (black and white or color) plus a caption.

If you have also purchased a book but do not have an email address on file, you will be sent a photo mailer to send a physical photo in to be printed (note: the photo will be returned if you include a self-addressed, stamped envelope).

 

11.   Can anyone purchase a book?

The Rivier University Oral History Publication is available for sale only to Rivier University alumni.

 

12.   Is my purchase of the book or product a donation to Rivier?

No, all purchases of the book and products directly through PCI fund this important initiative. They are not donations to Rivier and are not tax-deductible.

 

13.   Are there other items in addition to the book available for purchase?

Yes, you will have the opportunity to purchase the print book, a digital version of the publication, and several commemorative 90th anniversary items. You can purchase just the print book by itself, or you can choose from several packages with additional items. The packages will be offered for sale during your call.

 

14.   When will I receive my book and/or items I purchased?

The total duration of the Oral History Project is about 12 months. We anticipate that all purchased products will ship in May 2023.

 

15.   I ordered a book/package over the phone and would like to cancel my order. How do I do this?

Contact PCI’s customer service helpdesk at 1-800-982-1590 and they will take care of this for you.

 

If you have additional questions, please contact the Office of University Advancement and Alumni Relations at (603) 897-8665.