THEME

The theme Let’s Talk Society encourages conference participants to explore the various ways in which our communication discipline provides a lens for interpreting the values of societies in transition.

Communication is developed in our relation to others and in relation to what happens in the social context. It is therefore not neutral but mediates people’s relationships and practices. Technological transitions, economical changes, medical advancements, environmental turbulence, political movements and other evolving circumstances influence public values that shape societies. It is important to analyze the situated meaning of these societal themes in everyday life, and the influence of public relations and strategic communication in this regard.

Let’s Talk Society recognizes that transitions in society influence our expectations, redefine roles, transform patterns of media use and human interaction, e.g. communication. As many public debates in society make clear, the question of how to articulate these values and frameworks and feed them into the public discourse have become urgent matters.

With broad definition, the conference theme Let’s Talk Societyaims to encourage EUPRERA’s unique interdisciplinary perspective to investigate issues that are meaningful within and across societies, organizations and interest groups.

Horizon 2020, the EU Framework for innovation, sets the stage for this congress. Our intention is to have contributions covering the full scope of this EU theme from an innovation perspective, but oriented at the role of public relations communication. Contributions are invited not only expressing the status quo but specifically focused (future) development and opportunity: how does PR/ communication fit into Horizon 2020?

RISE: Innovating Global Communication

The theme for the IABC 2016 World Conference is RISE: Innovating Global Communication. It represents their mission to elevate your career, the global rise of communication as a business-crucial part of the organization, and the stunning transformation made by New Orleans, the conference city, as it tackles challenges to become a strong and growing hub for innovation.

What to expect

We’ll carry innovation throughout the program, building on the best of what we’ve learned about outstanding communication and aiming high to capture the newest knowledge and ideas in the profession. Here’s what you can expect:

• Learn how to drive innovation and reinvent your communication practice.
• Access ideas about new tools and techniques that will foster your ability to innovate.
• Experience truly inspirational keynotes who can expand your ideas about the future of the profession.

IABC is grounded in creating connections around knowledge, experience, ideas and people. These connections drive innovation and enable you, and the communication profession, to rise and be recognized for the contributions you make to your organizations.

Tangible benefits

By attending the IABC World Conference, you will:

• Increase your network with over 1,200 participants in attendance.
• Experience outstanding keynote speeches and informative panel discussions.
• Choose from more than 60 exceptional sessions in a variety of formats .

IABC is grounded in creating connections around knowledge, experience, ideas and people. These connections drive innovation and enable you, and the communication profession, to rise and be recognized for the contributions you make to your organizations.
We’ll share the innovative knowledge, creative tools and critical connections we need to make communication the centerpiece of a thriving business community.

Tracks with a focus

Our sessions will be organized by one of these five tracks.

• Communication skills: Skill-based knowledge, such as technical and social media skills, measurement techniques, planning, writing, photography/visuals, design and presenting
• Leadership and strategy: Dialogue and techniques that position communication as a high-value function, enable communicators to facilitate and foster relationships, build leadership skills and empower communicators to better support business goals
• Marketing and brand: Insights and expertise on marketing to support sales and branding as an expression of the value of an organization, product or service
• Reputation: Guidance on interpreting perceptions, values and connections that stakeholders have toward an organization, incorporating social responsibility and employing strategies for preparing for, and dealing with, a crisis
• Employee engagement: Case studies, analysis and best practices that help to ensure employee behaviors that support organizational goals and demonstrate above-and-beyond commitment

Global Standard and Career Paths

The World Conference program is aligned to the Global Standard, defined by communication professionals around the world who embrace a shared career purpose and six core Principles as the building blocks of their work. Applying that standard enables us to cross all borders, align with diverse cultures and effectively serve organizations of all types and sizes.
Sessions will also be categorized by Career Path, helping to support your career goals as you plan your schedule. Choose the path that best describes where you are today.

Join us! Registration opens at the end of October 2015.

 As a higher education communications counselor, strategic planning, crisis management and media relations are just a few of your responsibilities. Which higher education communications trends should you be on the lookout for in the semesters ahead?

Take notes on the latest on-the-job challenges and opportunities facing college and university counselors at the PRSA Counselors to Higher Education (CHE) Senior Summit. Designed by higher education communicators for higher education communicators, the senior summit's program is developed by the PRSA CHE Section.

Reasons Why You Should Attend the PRSA Counselors to Higher Education Senior Summit

• Update your 2016 programs, from crisis plans to everyday messaging, with best practice discussions on how to position your college or university’s brand.
• Create more strategic and interdepartmental partnerships to focus internal resources where they’re most needed.
• Streamline your budget by discovering the most effective tools to communicate with internal and external stakeholders on higher education issues.
• Sharpen your social media strategy, with insight on what you need to implement now (and what can wait for 2017).
• Develop stronger connections with fellow practitioners and key media during receptions, lunches, sessions and refreshment breaks.
• Check out the latest products and the most advanced solutions on the market to help you reach your organizational goals.