Strategic Presidential Communication in Higher Education

Changing Higher Ed

With today’s heightened political and social focus on higher education, the role of strategic communications for university presidents and boards is more important than ever.

In this episode of Changing Higher Ed, Drumm McNaughton is joined in conversation by Erin Hennessy, Executive Vice President for TVP Communications, a firm specializing in higher education communications. Erin, with her extensive background in strategic and crisis communications, offers invaluable insights into the complexities of presidential communications.

This episode is particularly timely, considering the recent hearings in Washington, increased demands for statements from higher ed presidents on seemingly every social or political topic, and the evolving challenges for higher education presidents.

Key Discussion Points Strategic Communication in Higher Education:

• The importance of using discernment in strategic communication in higher education, especially in the context of recent political developments.
• The challenges and nuances of presidential communications emphasize the need for clarity, tact, and alignment with institutional values.

The Impact of Political Climate on Higher Education:

• The recent Washington hearings have highlighted the significance of being politically aware and prepared in communication strategies for higher education leaders.
• The discussion sheds light on the necessity for university presidents to be adept at handling various situations, including media relations and public perception.

Building Trust through Transparent Communication:

• The essential role of transparency in building trust among stakeholders in the higher education sector.
• The importance of consistent, clear, and honest communication from university leadership to maintain institutional integrity and trust.

Investing in Robust Communication Infrastructure:

• The importance of investing in strong communication teams and infrastructure is emphasized, considering the evolving challenges in the higher education landscape.
• A well-equipped communication team is key to effectively anticipating and responding to challenges and safeguarding the reputation and standing of the institution.

Three Key Takeaways for Higher Education Presidents and Boards

1. Prioritize Strategic Communication: Recognize and invest in strategic communication as a crucial aspect of effective leadership in higher education.

2. Foster Transparency and Trust: Develop and maintain trust with key stakeholders through transparent and consistent communication strategies.

3. Adapt to Changing Communication Needs: Embrace adaptability in communication approaches, continuously evolving to meet the changing dynamics of the higher education landscape.

Final Thoughts

This episode provides a deep and nuanced understanding of the valuable role of strategic communications in higher education leadership. Erin Hennessy’s expertise highlights the need for university presidents and boards to be strategic, transparent, and adaptable in their communication. Her insights are particularly relevant in light of recent political events and the ongoing challenges in higher education. The episode is a rich resource for higher education leaders aiming to navigate the complex terrain of institutional communication effectively.

Read the transcript on our website →

About Our Podcast Guest

Erin A. Hennessy

Erin, at TVP Communications, leverages her higher education expertise, policy knowledge, and understanding of leadership styles to develop internal communication plans and offer strategic counsel to senior leaders. She leads the agency's crisis communications and trains professionals in campus roles.

Before TVP Comms in 2014, Erin worked at the American Council on Education, enhancing its media presence and supporting member institutions. Her higher education journey began at Drew University, where she was deputy chief of staff to Presidents Kean and Weisbuch, handling various responsibilities, including crisis response.

Erin's background also includes roles as press secretary for U.S. Representative Frelinghuysen and in New Jersey Gov. Whitman's administration. A New Jersey native, she lived in Washington, D.C., for 15 years, earning a master's in communication from American University, and returned to New Jersey in 2021.

About the Host

Dr. Drumm McNaughton, host of Changing Higher Ed®, is a consultant to higher education institutions in governance, accreditation, strategy and change, and mergers. To learn more about his services and other thought leadership pieces, visit his firm’s website: https://changinghighered.com/.

The Change Leader’s Social Media Links

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdrumm/
• Twitter: @thechangeldr
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