For the second consecutive year, the America East Conference hosted a student media forum at the Basketball Tip-Off Event, which took place Oct. 14 at the Connecticut State Capitol. With an emphasis placed on learning how to better reach out to students across the conference, Newman's Own CEO Bob Forrester, America East Commissioner Patrick Nero and Associate Commissioner Brian Barrio spoke with over 25 student-media representatives from eight of the nine schools.

With a primary focus on fostering a strong relationship between the America East and the students on each of the nine campuses, the America East covered the travel expenses for student media to attend the event in Hartford. As Nero explained, this event further solidified the relationship between the conference and the students from the nine campuses.

"It was great to spend the afternoon with members of the student media from all of our nine campuses," said Nero. "As a conference, we are committed to helping our universities enhance the educational experiences of all of our students. This event was a great opportunity for us to include various members of our campus communities."

The student media was given the opportunity to discuss the Campus Community Service Challenge with Forrester, while also explaining the most effective ways for the conference to utilize social media and effectively deliver its message. The Newman's Own sponsorship and commitment to community service impressed many of the students, including Seth Orensky of Boston University.

"I was really impressed by everything that Newman's Own is doing in partnership with America East," emphasized Orensky. "To have a sponsor like Newman's Own is fantastic for the conference and hopefully can take America East to the next level in terms of athletics and overall."

After arriving in Hartford, the student-media immediately became immersed in the Basketball Tip-Off Event. Following lunch, the student media were able to experience the official unveiling of the Preseason Coaches' Poll and the All-Conference Teams. After remarks from Nero, Boston University men's basketball coach Patrick Chambers, Boston University women's basketball coach Kelly Greenberg, University of Hartford Director of Athletics Pat Meiser and Congressman John Larson, the students were able to interview all 18 coaches in attendance. For the student-media, the opportunity to be a part of such a unique event only furthered to generate excitement for the upcoming basketball season.

"This was my first America East Media Day and it was a great experience," Orensky explained. "This is one of the few events where representatives from every school actually can come together and talk about their schools and America East sports. I loved the event and can't wait to see what the basketball season brings."

This forum proved to be an excellent experience for all involved. The student media was able to experience a Basketball Tip-Off event and also learn valuable information from both Newman's Own and the America East conference. For the conference, the chance to learn how to best reach out and interact with students on each of the nine campuses was invaluable. This event should only continue to foster an excellent relationship between the conference and its students.