Crisis Communication Strategies for Universities

Season 6 - Episode 202

Is your university truly prepared for a crisis—and is that plan ready to activate when it matters most? In this conversation, Mike Thomas, Vice President for Integrated Marketing Communications at Pepperdine University, explores the vital role of gratitude, crisis communication, and the Emergency Operations Committee in navigating crises like wildfires. He underscores the power of authentic brand messaging and the university’s deep commitment to caring for its students in times of crisis. The discussion also highlights the importance of a EOC team, active community engagement, and the hopeful role a well-defined crisis communication plan can play in keeping people informed and connected during emergencies.

🎧 Listen to Learn:

✅ Why crisis communication is essential for community safety and reassurance.

✅ How the Emergency Operations Committee plays a crucial role in crisis preparedness.

✅ Effective communication should address both physical and emotional safety.

✅ Social media can be a powerful tool for community engagement during crises.

✅Transparency in communication fosters trust within the community.

Join the Discussion:

03:02 Crisis Communication and Community Response

06:04 Emergency Operations Committee: Preparedness and Execution

09:05 The Importance of Communication in Crisis

12:04 Building a Culture of Safety and Transparency

14:58 Leveraging Social Media for Community Engagement

23:52 Authenticity in Brand Messaging

26:56 Metrics for Measuring Brand Effectiveness

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