Effective Communication Workshop

Communicating our work to the general public, policy makers, and scientific colleagues has never been more critical.  Effective communication can directly lead to success in public advocacy, mobilizing support and securing funding.  This workshop will explore how we can more effectively communicate with partners, internal and external, and various stakeholders. During this half day workshop, we will hear from experts on communicating science research, communication to garner media interest and positive action, and communicating with donors for meaningful engagement.  In addition to these more formal presentations and discussions, this workshop will include a very Chicago tradition…Improv!  The skills of improvisational comedy help foster active listening, collaboration and adaptability that will enhance conversations and optimize impact.

Workshop Leaders Include:

Sharon Dewar, Senior Vice President, Public Communications, Inc 

Sharon creates strategic communications programs for conservation and wildlife care organizations, helping turn complex science into compelling stories for news media to increase visibility, bolster organizational trust and public support. 

Dan Winter, JD, Greenvale Strategies

Dan is a fundraising professional with expertise in donor engagement who has worked with a variety of organizations to achieve their goals through philanthropic support.  

Jaime Landolfi DVM, PhD, Diplomate ACVP, University of Illinois Zoological Pathology Program

Wildlife pathologist by day, Jaime is an accomplished Improv performer and instructor who helps pull students out of themselves to elevate the whole.

CONTACT: wda2026@wildlifedisease.org