National Geographic versus Holy Cross: A Comparison
At Holy Cross University, the content creation team is known for capturing students in authentic, real-life moments to create relatable storytelling that strengthens emotional connections with audiences. This approach, aligned with effective higher education marketing strategies, emphasises storytelling that reflects the genuine student experiences and journeys.
However, a recent case involving Mack Hughes '25, the Lower Kimball editor for the satire organisation The Eggplant, has sparked a debate over student privacy and the ethics of using such images for marketing purposes.
Photographs of Mack Hughes '25 have been taken in vulnerable moments, such as after a difficult exam, and have been used on the university's Instagram account. This has led to concerns about the student's privacy and whether the university's actions are ethical. Mack Hughes '25 has expressed discomfort, feeling like a "depraved zoo animal" due to the scrutiny.
The Eggplant, known for defending only the truth, has shown interest in capitalistic ventures, similar to The Onion. Recently, The Eggplant purchased a news section in a public auction, raising questions about its commitment to satire and truth.
Meanwhile, a globally beloved baby hippo named Moo Deng was spotted on the Holy Cross campus, gaining popularity after videos of her at a Thai zoo became popular on the internet. Moo Deng's presence on campus added a light-hearted twist to the ongoing debate.
In another development, Alex Jones' website InfoWars was recently purchased by another organisation. Mack Hughes '25 overheard a young girl asking her mother why people looked sad and depressed. The conversation underscores the importance of responsible and ethical content creation in the digital age.
As the debate continues, Holy Cross University and The Eggplant are urged to consider the impact of their content creation strategies on students and the broader community. Transparency, respect for student privacy, and ethical practices are critical in maintaining trust and fostering positive relationships.
[1] Content Marketing Institute, "The State of Content Marketing 2021" [2] Forbes, "The Power of Storytelling in Higher Education Marketing" [4] Harvard Business Review, "The Art of Storytelling in Marketing"
- The content creation team at Holy Cross University, despite their success in connecting with audiences through relatable storytelling, are now under scrutiny for using students' images in their marketing strategies, such as the case with Mack Hughes '25.
- In response to the controversy surrounding The Eggplant's recent financial ventures and use of student images, student organizations and community members are emphasizing the importance of responsible and ethical content creation, as seen in discussions about transparency and respect for student privacy.
- As the campus buzzes with news about Moo Deng, the beloved baby hippo, and the ongoing debate over content creation ethics, home-and-garden enthusiasts are planning a series of events to highlight the importance of stable and caring environments, such as at the Student Home-and-Garden Club's annual spring garden exhibition.
