Public Relations and Journalism in Times of Crisis

Public Relations and Journalism in Times of Crisis dissects crisis communication case studies from both the journalists’ and the public relations professionals’ perspectives. The authors, Andrea Miller, a former journalist, and Jinx Coleman Broussard, a former public relations professional, interviewed dozens of journalists and PR professionals involved in some of the most visible crises of the last few years: Hurricane Katrina, Ebola in America, the Blue Bell Ice Cream recall, Susan G. Komen vs. Planned Parenthood, race relations in Ferguson, Missouri, and at the University of Missouri, the great flood of Baton Rouge in 2016, and the Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting. Hundreds of press releases and press stories were also reviewed. The authors provide practical strategies for working journalists and public relations practitioners to enhance the flow of information in a crisis so that audiences and stakeholders can make educated, rational decisions to protect their families and livelihoods. The book also acquaints professors and students of PR and journalism with the realities of covering and managing crises, including what works and why, as well as mistakes that occur that could damage their organizations. Public Relations and Journalism in Times of Crisis is unique for its analysis of the communication of cases from both perspectives. At the end of each case are takeaways for both sets of professionals, as well as industry best practice suggestions.

Andrea Miller is the Huie-Dellmon Professor at Louisiana State University’s Manship School of Mass Communication. She is a co-author of Oil and Water and News Evolution or Revolution? Prior to receiving her doctorate from the Missouri School of Journalism, Dr. Miller was an award-winning television news producer in Texas.

Jinx Coleman Broussard is the Bart R. Swanson Endowed Memorial Professor at Louisiana State University’s Manship School of Mass Communication. She is the author of Giving a Voice to the Voiceless and the national award-winning African American Foreign Correspondents. Dr. Broussard received her doctorate from the University of Southern Mississippi and worked for more than three decades in public relations.