Social Media Policy
Social media are defined as media designed for the purpose of social interaction using highly accessible communication techniques, such as web-based and mobile technologies to communicate and begin interactive dialogues.
One category of social media refers to what is traditionally acknowledged as social networking sites (e.g. Facebook, X, LinkedIn, Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok), which allows users to utilize a website to create a personalized profile from which they can share information about themselves, interact with other users, and network with both friends and new acquaintances.
A second type of social media includes websites known as content sharing sites (e.g. YouTube, Flickr, iTunesU, Vimeo, Ustream). These sites, unlike social networking sites, do not emphasize the personal profile, but rather easy and wide distribution of digital content, including photos, videos, audio clips, etc.
BUF employs the use of more traditional websites as its official web presence, including the main website (www.buf.edu), its subdomains (WFBU, Expository Preaching, etc.), Facebook, Vimeo, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, X, and the MyBUF web portal, powered by Jenzabar. The Marketing Office is responsible for the creation and maintenance of all BUF social media accounts. Only the President can authorize the creation of a social media account representing the university. Any other account which is established by any individual identifying one’s self as a representative of the university is against the stated policy.
The communication paradigm of social media allows for more freedom of information exchange, allowing spontaneous and instantaneous communication. However, all individuals must adhere to the stated policy guidelines listed. Any social media account established other than the official site will be considered a direct misrepresentation of the university and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken.
Anyone using social media outlets for the purpose of cyber-bullying, expressing disrespect toward university faculty or administration, or using language that demeans another individual is strictly forbidden. Any language or comments which are not in keeping with the university’s Christian values may result in disciplinary action against the person responsible for those comments or posts.