Whether it’s the zombie apocalypse, an active shooter situation or an ice storm, being prepared to handle a crisis is essential.
The Nicholson School of Communication (NSC) is pleased to invite the UCF community to attend the 4th annual International Crisis and Risk Communication (ICRC) Conference, Mar 3-5. This year’s theme, “The Human Element,” calls our attention to the human factors that can cause crises, help mitigate incidents and create and manage communication before, during and after events. The conference will be held at the Student Union and advanced registration is required.
The ICRC Conference was designed to facilitate interaction and discussion about crisis and risk communication among members of both the professional and academic research communities.
The concept for an international crisis and risk communication conference was created by the conference convener and NSC director, Dr. Robert C. Chandler, and his work in crisis and risk communication applied research. It became apparent that research scholars tended to “talk with” and interact predominately with other research scholars at academic conferences and meetings. Likewise, professionals seemed to be sharing with other professionals in a variety of conventions, expos and trade shows driven by vendor sales. There was a need for expanded idea sharing and conversations to create a new synergy that engaged the perspectives of both practitioners and academics.
The 2014 conference will feature more than 50 speakers representing 14 countries who will look at the wide range of “audience variables” that affect comprehension, understanding and behavioral response to crisis and risk communication. Leading researchers, including Dr. W. Timothy Coombs, Dr. Jesper Falkheimer and Dr. Karen Freberg and experienced professionals, including Deborah Hersman of the National Transportation and Safety Board, Bob VandePol of PAX Crisis Response and Jim Satterfield of Firestorm Solutions, LLC, will address the best methods for managing a crisis. The ICRC Conference will benefit novices to seasoned veterans working in the areas of crisis and risk communication as it delves into the human and emotional sides of a crisis.
Online registration is $595 for the two-day conference and $1,095 for the complete three-day conference that includes pre-conference workshops. Conference registration includes all sessions, meals and networking reception.
For a complete agenda, list of speakers and registration, please visit the conference website at https://sciences.ucf.edu/communication/icrc/ or email icrc@ucf.edu.