Emory University Oral History Project FAQ | Emory Advancement & Alumni Engagement
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The Emory Oral History Project

Interested in sharing your Emory story, but need more information?

Please check out these frequently asked questions:

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

  • Emory is partnering with PCI (Publishing Concepts), a family-owned Dallas-based company with over 100 years of experience producing directories for schools and organizations, to create an Oral History Publication. This project lets you share how Emory shaped your life—and while we're connected, we'll also confirm your contact information.

2. Does Emory University benefit from this at all?

  • Yes, Emory benefits from this project in several meaningful ways. First, it helps us update alumni contact information so we can stay connected and share important news and opportunities. Second, collecting and preserving alumni stories helps celebrate Emory’s legacy and ensures our history is passed down to future generations. Finally, the project strengthens our community by reminding alumni of their meaningful connections to Emory and the impact the university has had on their lives.

3. How do I know my information will only be used for Oral History Project purposes?

  • Your information is safe with PCI. It will only be used for the Oral History Project and related preparation, unless required by law or court order.

4. I would like to verify or update my information and share a story. How can I do this?

  • If you received a postcard or email with a phone number, you can call to speak with a dedicated representative who will verify and update your information, then invite you to share your Emory story. Your story will be recorded and shared with Emory at the end of the project.
  • If your email included a link, you can use it to review your details and submit your story online.
  • If you didn’t receive a postcard or email, call our dedicated Emory update line at 1-877-210-9580.
  • International alumni or those unable to call can email PCI at  PCIservice@publishingconcepts.com to request a personalized link for submitting a written story and photo.

5. If I choose to participate, what can I expect from the call?

  • A PCI rep will start by confirming and updating your contact info. Then, you’ll be invited to share a favorite Emory memory for our oral history project. At the end of the call, PCI will offer you the opportunity to purchase a copy of the Oral History Project book or digital collection. This is how PCI funds the project—there is no cost to Emory. While this sales pitch can feel unexpected, participation and purchase are completely optional. 

6. Can I participate if I am deaf or hard of hearing?

  • If you would like to participate and are deaf or hard of hearing, please email customerservice@publishingconcepts.com. PCI will send you a personalized link for you to share your written story and photo.

7. Can I choose what information prints in the publication?

  • Yes—you control what appears in the publication. Only your name, class year, degree, story, and photo will be included; no contact information is printed. You can revoke consent for your story or photo any time before January 23, 2026, by contacting PCI at 1-800-982-1590 or PCIservice@publishingconcepts.com.

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

  • You can call back at any time before January 23, 2026, to share your story.

9. I shared a story and the representative said I could send a photo. How do I do this?

  • After sharing your story, you’ll receive an email with a link to upload one photo and a caption. If you purchased a book but don’t have an email on file, you’ll receive a mailer to submit a physical photo. To have it returned, simply include a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

10. Can anyone purchase a book?

  • The Emory University Oral History Publication is available for sale only to Emory alumni.

11. When will I receive my book?

  • The total duration of the Oral History Project is about 12-13 months. Since we began the project in July 2025, the books will be distributed in August 2026.

12. 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.