We’ve probably all attended crisis communication programs in the past. Many of them feature the basics that often serve as great reminders to take back to the office, but on June 3, we’ll go beyond the basics. Major Andrea Pitruzzella will share her expertise on crisis communication and associated media training with an interactive workshop featuring mock interviews.

The first half of the workshop will feature an overview and understanding of the framework and tools necessary to develop an expertise and confidence to successfully handle media interviews during a crisis situation. The second half of the workshop will feature mock interviews with attendee participation, and will review how to handle hostile settings and present yourself more effectively.

Expect to leave having learned how to:

• Develop a crisis communication plan before the crisis
• Develop your message
• Prepare a subject matter expert
• Prepare for the media interview
• Answer the tough questions

About the Speaker:

Major Andrea E. Pitruzzella
Chief of Public Affairs
914^th Airlift Wing, Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station

Andrea Pitruzzella is a Major in the United States Air Force Reserve and is currently assigned as the Chief of Public Affairs for the 914^th Airlift Wing, Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, New York. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education, with a concentration in Culturally Responsive Teaching from SUNY Buffalo State. She later went on to receive her Master’s Degree in Organization Leadership from Medaille College.

Andrea joined the Air Force in 1981 and served 16 years as an enlisted member before being commissioned as an officer in 1997. She has served four years of active duty and in 1986 joined the Air National Guard, where she served for 23 years prior to joining the Air Force Reserve in her current position.

As a member of the 914^th, Andrea serves on the Crisis Action Team, and develops plans and operational procedures, and advises senior leadership on a proactive crisis communication process. She has worked with various federal agencies to develop crisis management strategies and conduct mock media interviews with feedback.


Notes: Registration begins at 7:45 a.m.Program will run promptly from 8 to 10 a.m. Light breakfast will be provided. Please enter the building through the glass atrium that is connecting the old and new buildings. Parking for this entrance is on the opposite side of Sheridan Drive. Do not enter the main AAA member entrance (facing International Drive). Once you enter the building, take the stairs to the lower level.