Douglas Wilbur and Danielle Myers, University of Missouri

The NFL is facing a long-term public relations threat over the issue of Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE), a progressive neurodegenerative disease that occurs in association with repetitive concussions. This issue reached a tipping point with the release of Concussion, a film that portrays the NFL in a nefarious manner. There is already evidence in the form of declining youth participation in contact sports and legislative actions that the concussion/CTE issue is affecting the public.

A study presented at the 2016 International Public Relations Research Conference provides initial evidence that unorganized and semi-organized publics can adopt a stance in the same manner as an organization during a crisis situation. Read more.
Michael Ziviani, Precise Value Pty Limited of Australia, IPR Measurement Commission

The practice of public relations is approaching a crossroads in its relationship with the marketing function - a crossroad not dissimilar to when the Integrated Marketing Communications (IMC) concept was first introduced. The concept of integration understandably elicits concern among PR purists who legitimately defend the value of their pre-eminent expertise in two-way communication. Yet the critical challenge of proving the nature and extent of PR value has remained surprisingly elusive for many.

Although many professionals today see the need for change, they are conflicted between reputation and marketing functions. Whilst IR, Internal and Corporate Communications are tripping along nicely, will the rest of PR end up reporting directly to the CEO or be subsumed under marketing? Read more. 
Ron Fuchs, APR, Roche
Like many companies, Roche is committed to measuring its employee engagement and using the knowledge gained to strengthen Roche as a great place to work. The company has expanded and enhanced its leadership development efforts, launching three new leadership programs and developing its Leadership Commitments.

From workshops personally modeled by the CEO to site-based strategies that included Gemba Walks on factory floors, the Leadership Commitments have spread like wildfire. These seven commitments set a clear code of behavior and principles and make a promise to employees about what they can expect from their leaders. Read more. 
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