Frequently Asked Questions
I received an email/postcard/phone call from a company asking for my personal information and a story about Texas A&M University-Kingsville. Is this a legitimate project or is it a scam?
Don’t worry, it’s legit! We have partnered with PCI (also known as Publishing Concepts) to produce an Oral History Publication for the Javelina Alumni Association. 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 almost 100 years. This project allows us to hear about your personal experiences and explain how the university has helped shape your lives.
Does the university benefit from this at all?
Yes, it does! Here are a few ways:
- Updated Information: allows us to effectively communicate with and engage alumni
- Legacy: preserves the history of our university
- Revenue: generates donation revenue for future Javelinas
- Pride: shows support and love for our school
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, 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. Upon completion of the project, PCI will redact PII (Personal Identifiable information) from any and all electronic files that we have supplied or were produced by PCI in connection with the production of the Oral History Project.
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 all the information we have on file for you, make any updates where needed, then ask you to share your story about your time at or institution. Your story will be recorded and the sound clip provided to the Javelina Alumni Association 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 Customer Service line specific to our project at 1-855-376-5984
Do I have to buy something?
No! This project is being done at NO COST to the Javelina Alumni Association. The project is completely funded by the alumni who choose to purchase the Javelina Alumni Stories book that will be produced at the end of the project. Various book packages will be offered. PCI will also offer you the option to purchase other Javelina Alumni branded items such us shirts and other merchandise. You are welcome to purchase these items, but you are not required to do so to participate in the project or order the ‘Javelina Stories’ book. Again, we’d never be able to embark on a project like this without the support of our Javelina Family and this partnership with PCI. We sincerely thank every alum that participates!
Can I choose what information prints in the publication?
When you call to update your information, you can tell the representative if you prefer any of your information be excluded. You can also communicate your preferences to PCI’s customer service helpdesk at 1-800-982-1590 / customerservice@publishingconcepts.com or to the Alumni Association directly.
I updated my information but need some more time to think about what experience to share.
You can call back at any time to share your story.
I shared a story and the representative said I could send some photos. How do I do this?
You will receive an email with a link to upload up to two photos (black and white or color) plus captions. 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 physical photos in to be printed (note: photos will be returned if you include a self-addressed, stamped envelope).
I’d like to add / remove info from my story.
You will receive an email prior to publication with a link to review your transcribed story and make any edits.
Can anyone purchase a book?
The Texas A&M University-Kingsville Oral History Publication is available for sale only to Texas A&M University-Kingsville alumni.
When will I receive my book?
The total duration of the Oral History Project is about 12 months. Since we began the project in May of 2021, the books will be distributed in May/June 2022.
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.