Pulitzer Center Update

Jon Sawyer speaks at Crisis Communication conference, DC 11/3

John participates in the panel entitled Mega-Media in the 21st Century -- What's Old? What's New?: From Mainstream to Newstream Media from 10:45- 12:00pm.

Registration & Continental Breakfast: 7:30am-8:25am
Forum Hours: 8:20am-4:00pm
Networking Reception: 4:00pm-5:00pm

About this forum:

Past crises such as 9-11 and Hurricanes Gustav, Ike and Katrina have paved the way in how to communicate a crisis to the public, stakeholders and the media. Both the strengths and weaknesses of how information was disseminated before, during and after these crises have been studied and analyzed to better prepare you for future risk and crisis communications. The "what", "why", "how" and timing of public – and private - informational and call to action messages can make a significant difference in the effectiveness of the message and overall response and interpretation. Good public education, information and warnings are the responsibility of government and corporate leaders at all levels.

The goal of Risk and Crisis Communications in the 21st Century Forum is to examine the full range of research, lessons-learned, best practices (from both industry and government leaders) in the development and practical application of critical messages, instructions, and calls to action to the public by emergency leaders. You will be provided with examples, case studies, techniques and process you can take to your organizations and use to train key executive and emergency response leadership as well as integrate into your policy and practice.

Through expert perspectives, panels and small group interaction, the Forum will present insights, analysis and forecasts on risk and crisis communications in the 21st century. Where are we now and where do we need to be in terms of best practice, innovation, partnerships, policy, and research, what hurdles do we need to overcome, and what are the solutions to get there on both an individual and collective basis?

You will learn about the impact of emerging forces and trends on current leadership, strategy development, and innovations. In addition to mapping out the negative effects of recent events, communications leaders and practitioners will recommend specific solutions to improve the aftermath of crisis, reduce future risks, and produce more effective and efficient communications plans. You will also engage in an interactive breakout session to map-out a "communication plan" based on lessons learned from previous crises, current and future forces and trends, and best practices.

For more information and a detailed schedule visit Homeland Defense Journal.com