Presentation Description
This session introduces practical communication strategies for public-facing professionals involved in disaster preparedness and response. Drawing from research in risk perception, trust, and decision-making, the presentation examines how professionals across the health, government, and information sectors can convey messages that foster understanding and encourage action during emergencies. Special attention will be paid to cross-sector coordination, local knowledge, and building public trust in preparation for future disasters.
Short Bio
Brett Robertson, Ph.D., is an Associate Professor in the College of Information and Communications (CIC) and Associate Director of the Hazards Vulnerability and Resilience Institute (HVRI) at the University of South Carolina. His research focuses on disaster preparedness, risk communication, and improving access to critical information during emergencies. He has published extensively on topics such as disaster resilience, emergency communication, and collaborative efforts to strengthen public safety. His work has earned numerous accolades, including the W. Charles Redding Outstanding Dissertation Award from the International Communication Association. In 2025, he received the Michael J. Mungo Undergraduate Teaching Award, the highest honor for undergraduate teaching at the University of South Carolina.
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Learning Objectives
By the end of the webinar, participants will be able to:
- Identify key factors that shape public trust in disaster communication.
- Describe how different sectors can coordinate messaging during emergency events.
- Recognize barriers that impact public understanding of risk information.
- Apply communication strategies that encourage preparedness behavior.