“Earning The Public’s Trust in a Crisis”

Presented by: Dr. Joseph V. Trahan, III, APR, Fellow PRSA, and Joseph “Joe” Van Trahan, IV

Program Summary:

Strengthen your public relations expertise with this focused, half-day professional development event presented by the esteemed father-son team -- Dr. Joseph V. Trahan, III, APR, Fellow PRSA, and Joseph “Joe” Van Trahan, IV. This interactive program will equip participants with actionable strategies to build trust, lead effectively during a crisis, and communicate with authority. All attendees will leave with enhanced skills in crisis management and storytelling, ensuring their PR efforts resonate in even the most challenging circumstances.

Schedule-At-A-Glance:

Breakfast & Networking – 8-8:30 a.m.
Morning Program – 8:30-11:30 a.m.
Lunch & Networking – 11:30 a.m.-noon
Lunch Program/Keynote – Noon-1 p.m.

Event Agenda:

8–8:30 a.m. | Check-In, Breakfast, Networking, and Welcome Remarks

8:30–10 a.m. | Workshop: Earning The Public’s Trust in a Crisis

This session provides practical guidance on how to establish and sustain public trust when the stakes are high. Attendees will take away clear strategies for communicating transparently, delivering audience-focused messages, and maintaining organizational credibility—even under pressure. Learn how to embody authenticity, address concerns proactively, and foster strong connections with stakeholders throughout any crisis.

10-10:15 a.m. | Break

10:15-11:30 a.m. | Interactive Seminar: How to Become a Superhero Spokesperson by Channeling Your Inner Aristotle

In this interactive seminar, attendees will learn to master the balance of ethos, pathos, and logos to make a compelling impact in every media interaction. The session will offer step-by-step strategies for crafting memorable key messages that resonate, as well as proven techniques for confidently navigating interviews and managing tough questions. Participants will leave prepared to project credibility, build trust, and handle high-pressure media challenges with clarity and composure.

11:30 a.m.–12:05 p.m. | Lunch & Annual Chapter Business Meeting

12:05–12:55 p.m. | Keynote Address: FIFA World Cup 2026 Public Relations

This forward-looking session will empower attendees with strategies for creating impactful PR campaigns tailored to large-scale, global events like the FIFA World Cup 2026. Participants will learn how to engage diverse audiences, amplify key messages, and leverage the power of storytelling to boost event visibility and public interest. The session will also highlight practical techniques for managing international media relations and building a cohesive narrative that resonates on a global stage. A Q&A session will close the program.

12:55-1 p.m. | Closing Remarks

Presenters:

Dr. Joseph V. Trahan, III, APR, Fellow PRSA

Dr. Joseph V. Trahan, III is a globally recognized expert in media relations, crisis communication, and leadership training. With over 40 years of public relations experience spanning government, nonprofit, and educational sectors, Dr. Trahan has trained more than 3,500 professionals annually across 46 states and internationally. A retired U.S. Army Reserve lieutenant colonel, he brings unparalleled expertise in public affairs, having managed multiple large-scale Joint Information Centers. Dr. Trahan, an accomplished academic with a Ph.D. in Mass Communication, has been honored with prestigious accolades. including the PRSA Lloyd B. Dennis Award for Leadership and induction into the Public Relations Hall of Fame. His dynamic approach to communication emphasizes clarity, accountability, and trust, positioning him as a leading voice in the profession. For more information, visit https://www.doctrahanmedia.com/.

Joseph “Joe” Van Trahan, IV

Joseph “Joe” Van Trahan, IV is a seasoned public relations professional specializing in sports and entertainment communications. He currently serves as Director of PR and Communications for the North Texas FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee, where he oversees strategic messaging for one of the world’s largest sporting events. With nearly two decades of experience, including 17 years with the Dallas Cowboys’ Media Relations Department, Joe has coordinated PR for marquee events such as Super Bowl XLV, the NCAA Final Four, and international soccer matches. A graduate of The University of Southern Mississippi with degrees in Sports Administration and Public Relations, he combines his extensive expertise with a passion for storytelling to elevate the profile of global events. Connect with Joe on LinkedIn, here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-trahan-750aa310/

Costs:

Morning Program Only – $80 (all registrants)
Morning Program and Luncheon – $90 (all registrants)
Luncheon Only – $45 (members), $50 (national members), $50 (non-members), $35 (students)