STRATEGIC PLANNING, MEDIA RELATIONS AND WRITING


THE FORYSTH INSTITUTE
The Forsyth Institute is a small, independent nonprofit organization originally founded in 1910 to provide free care for Boston schoolchildren. Over the years, Forsyth shifted its focus to biomedical research, with the ultimate goal of improving the overall health of the public. From 2000-2005, Anita Harris Communications developed and executed an award-winning external communications strategy incorporating media relations, communications coaching and writing.

Among other highlights, we wrote and disseminated press releases about research on a vaccine for dental cavities, tooth regeneration, power toothbrushes, the use of blue light to eradicate gum disease, and a bacterial test for oral cancer. One recent discovery was covered by nearly 700 news outlets.  Other coverage led directly to the signing of an option to commercialize a technology expected to lead to the regeneration of human teeth; to a six-figure grant for research on a deadly bacterial disease that kills or maims some 100 thousand children a year; to an enhanced institutional image leading to requests for collaborations and training; and to numerous corporate collaboration and investment opportunities

As a result of this work, Harris Communications won four prestigious Bell Ringer and two International Communicator Awards.