September 2, 2015 | SharkAdmin [image 1]Several Northwest Vista College leaders participated in a crisis media training session on Friday, Aug. 27 in an effort to communicate effectively with the media and the public in times of crisis. The training was a proactive measure coordinated by NVC’s Crisis Action Team (CAT) that works to evaluate potential risks and challenges and create a safe and pleasant environment for students, employees and community members. “I thought the Crisis Media Training was one of the best trainings that I have attended,” said Dr. Amy Whitworth, dean of Arts and Sciences. “The facilitator was intelligent, an expert in the field, and savvy. He provided the opportunity for us to respond on camera to an interview during a crisis so that we can be prepared for such an event. His critique and pointers were extremely helpful. He brought to light just how important it is to carefully prepare our response to the media. I feel like I left with some tools that I can use if I need them. “ The training was conducted by Mark Bernheimer of MediaWorks Resource Group, a media training and crisis communications firm that coaches leaders how to convey their messages effectively to create a successful brand, enhance company reputation and earn respect of their stakeholders. [image 2]“We selected Mark Bernheimer because he is one of the best in the industry,” said Renata Serafin, CAT Team member and NVC’s director of Community and Public Relations. “Mark gave two hands-on workshops with hyper-realistic scenarios, drills and feedback geared toward each individual person to help us master communication challenges.” Prior to his current work, Mark Bernheimer was an award-winning national correspondent for CNN in the Los Angeles Bureau. His assignments included the Columbine High School shootings, the Jon Benet Ramsey investigation, the Unabomber case, the Oklahoma City Bombing trials of Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols, among others. Thank you to workshop’s participants: Lydia Beaver – President’s Office Rick Chamblin – Natural and Physical Sciences Patrick Fontenot – Workforce Education & Training Debi Gaitan – Student Success Edgar Garza – Speech Steven Kolnes – Teaching and Learning Facilitation Carlos Lopez – Humanities Heather McCreery – Workforce Technical Programs Melissa Monroe-Young – Public Relations Felix Salinas – Information and Communication Renata Serafin – Public Relations Erin Sherman – College Services Amy Whitworth – Arts and Sciences
