It looks like "FacebookGate (opens new window)" is happening again this year (opens new window). I suggest reading the two links in the last sentence to get some context about the issue at hand.

What is Happening

This year it looks like they already created a fake group for us (opens new window) along with a bunch of other school's class of 2014 groups. This is an issue because the creator and other members of the fake group are not associated with Wayne State University. Although I was impressed they did take the time to include our fight song and other information.

The Problem

It is not that we don't control the group but rather that the group is part of a larger plan by an outside organization to market to our students on false pretenses. Although the fake group does list "(official group)" in their title it actually is not.

The Solution

Since we have been increasing active on Facebook in the past few years and many departments are pushing to get their freshmen involved early we setup a short URL. This can be used on any electronic or print publications to direct new students to the real Class of 2014 Facebook group. Hopefully over time as students join and we post more the fake group will get ignored so there is less confusion for the students.

URL to the official group is http://wayne.edu/2014/ (opens new window)

If you have any questions about the situation or our use of Facebook feel free to let me know.