Saint Leo University's Oral History Project

Saint Leo University’s Office of Alumni Engagement is partnering with Publishing Concepts Inc. (PCI) to complete an oral history project. We’re asking friends - like you – to share their Saint Leo story. This project aims to document the unique stories, experiences, and memories of our alumni who have played a vital role in shaping the history of Saint Leo University. Your voices will co-write this publication and will be archived for generations of new Lions to view.

How do I share my story and order the book?

As soon as Monday, July 31, PCI will send you emails and postcards requesting to verify your contact information. Upon doing so, you’ll have the opportunity to share your Saint Leo story! A representative will be on the line to walk you through the process, confirm your consent, and help you preorder the book.

What should I include in my Saint Leo story?

It’s all up to you … but here are some ideas for you to consider:

  • How did Saint Leo impact your life?
  • What activities did you enjoy as a student?
  • Who was your favorite professor and how did they help shape your life?
  • What is your favorite Saint Leo memory?
  • What surprised you at Saint Leo? What was a mystery or a new discovery?
  • What Core Value resonates with you most?

Frequently Asked Questions

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

We have partnered with PCI (also known as Publishing Concepts) to produce an Oral History Publication for Saint Leo 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 Saint Leo University and how the school helped to shape your life since then. And, while we have you on the phone, we want to make sure your contact information is up to date.

 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 and except as required by court order or law.

 Does Saint Leo University benefit from this at all?

Yes, 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
  • Revenue – generates non-dues revenue for alumni programs
  • Pride – wearing apparel shows support and love for our school

 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 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 Saint Leo University. Your story will be recorded and the sound clip provided to Saint Leo 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 Saint Leo University update line at 1-855-912-9252.

 Can I choose what information prints in 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 for the school/alumni association. You may revoke consent for your story and/or photo to appear any time before 1/26/2024 by contacting PCI’s customer service helpdesk at 1-800-982-1590 / customerservice@publishingconcepts.com.

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

You can call back at any time before 1/26/2024 to share your story.

 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).

 Can anyone purchase a book?

The Saint Leo University Oral History Publication is available for sale only to Saint Leo University alumni

 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.

 When will I receive my book?

The total duration of the Oral History Project is about 12 months. Since we began the project at the end of July 2023, the books will be distributed in July/August 2024

 

For questions, please contact the Office of Alumni Engagement alumni.engagement@saintleo.edu (352) 588-8867.