Orem, UT - October 29, 2019 - Chris Thomas, public relations expert and chief publicist during the Elizabeth Smart crisis spoke to students from Utah Valley University’s Public Relations Student Society of America chapter on crisis communication on October 9, 2019.
Read more about UVU PRSSA at www.uvuprssa.org
“It’s all about messaging in a crisis,” said Thomas. “Ask yourself how you can best frame your message. Learn what the rumors are. What is the craziest thing that can be asked? Anticipate those questions, frame your message and practice.”
Thomas related much of his advice to his experience handling the Elizabeth Smart crisis, when 14-year-old Elizabeth Smart was abducted from her home in 2002. His role was to manage the media during the abduction, rescue and sentencing of her abductors. Because of Smart’s large family, many spoke to the media. Thomas said much of the work done was ensuring that all those speaking were educated on the key messages and remained true to them.
At the end of the presentation Thomas welcomed questions from the audience. One student asked on to manage emotions during a crisis. “In situations such as these, it is highly emotional. If you take it personally, use your emotions as ammunition,” said Thomas. This approach to Smart’s case was well-received as the nation soon found itself sympathizing and working together to find Smart and return her to her family.
Thomas spoke on several other tactics to approaching and managing crises but left with one last message. “Communication is an opportunity to make a difference. The most powerful people are good communicators. Use it to help people and improve the world.”
Additional Resources:
Website: http://www.uvuprssa.org/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/prssa.uvu
Twitter: http://twitter.com/UVUPRSSA
Instagram: http://instagram.com/uvuprssa
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNpY7DtLF4j6X6G344Pl10w
About UVU PRSSA:
UVU’s chapter of PRSSA was established in October of 2009. In a short seven years, their
chapter has more than 100 active students within our university and has received local, state and
national recognition. In 2013 and 2016, they had received the National Outstanding Chapter award. In addition to holding monthly professional development activities and programs, UVU
PRSSA has received four Golden Spike Awards, including Best of Show and Utah’s Top PR
Industry award. UVU’s chapter of PRSSA is integrated within UVU and its surrounding
communities through service projects and professional development excursions.
Contact Information:
Allison Hurd
UVU PRSSA VP of Public Relations
757-354-0495
allisonlhurd@gmail.com