Crisis Communications in Higher Education

In this episode, Jaime talks with Christy Jackson, one of the foremost experts in crisis communications in higher education. In her higher education career, Christy has served in communications roles at Virginia Tech during the April 16 tragedy that killed 32; at Radford University when a student drove to Virginia Tech and killed a police officer; and at UNC Charlotte when an active shooter entered a classroom and killed two students. She was also the chief communications officer when Sweet Briar College announced its intention to close. Added to the mix are countless reputational issues, severe weather events, and deaths on- and off-campus. 

Meanwhile, Jaime has navigated an on-campus homicide at Winston-Salem State during Homecoming; several off-campus student homicides – including one on the Wake Forest University campus; the terminations of high-profile employees; a residence hall carbon monoxide leak; a 100-year flood; faculty unionization efforts; and many other crises and issues she wishes she could forget.

 In this episode, Christy and Jaime get real about what they have learned as they have responded to both life-safety crises and longer-term reputational issues. Takeaways include:

• A behind-the-scenes look at some of the scenarios Christy and Jaime have faced that led to worldwide headlines
• Insights into the lessons learned 
• Observations on the most common mistakes made
• Guiding principles for crisis communications 
• Ways universities can mitigate reputational damage during a crisis situation
• Tips for putting together a solid crisis communications plan and training for your team

About Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO

​​Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is sponsored by our friends at Mindpower- a full-service marketing and branding firm celebrating nearly thirty years of needle-moving, thought-provoking, research-fueled creative and strategy. Mindpower is women-founded and owned, WBENC certified, nationally recognized, and serves the social sector – higher education, healthcare, non-profits, and more. The Mindpower team is made up of strategists, storytellers, and experience creators. From market research to brand campaigns to recruitment to fundraising, the agency exists to empower clients, amplify brands, and help institutions find a strategic way forward. Learn more about Mindpower here! 

Confessions of a Higher Ed CMO is a part of the Enrollify Podcast Network.  If you like this podcast, chances are you’ll like other Enrollify shows too!  

Our podcast network is growing by the month and we’ve got a plethora of marketing, admissions, and higher ed technology shows that are jam packed with stories, ideas, and frameworks all designed to empower you to be a better higher ed professional. Our shows feature a selection of the industry’s best as your hosts. Learn from Mickey Baines, Zach Busekrus, Jeremy Tiers, Corynn Myers, Jaime Gleason and many more. 

Learn more about The Enrollify Podcast Network at podcasts.enrollify.org. Our shows help higher ed marketers and admissions professionals find their next big idea — come and find yours!