When nationally renowned entrepreneur and business icon Tom Golisano, the founder of Paychex, decided to establish a new, independent business school bearing his name, his just-appointed marketing vice president came to McDougall Communications with a challenge: Mr. Golisano wanted to announce the new initiative in four weeks.

With no time to spare, the agency immediately began planning a launch event for media and community dignitaries at the Institute’s location in suburban Rochester, N.Y.

In partnership with the Golisano Institute team, McDougall strategized and created a flow for a news conference, along with a pre-launch media advisory, day-of news release, key messages, and in-depth talking points for Mr. Golisano’s reference during a question-and-answer session. As a result, every major media outlet in the Finger Lakes Region covered the standing room-only announcement—broadcast, print, and digital alike.

In the months since, McDougall’s comprehensive strategic communications plan has created a steady cadence of positive media coverage across the Institute’s geographic footprint. The firm has also closely collaborated with Golisano’s creative agency to ensure that plans are aligned and processes are streamlined for optimal effectiveness and efficiencies.

There is no greater compliment than when a client says we are integral to their team. As with the Golisano Institute feedback, this is a frequent occurrence—something we consider both a privilege and a responsibility.