Crisis Management in Nonprofit Organizations: A Case Study of Crisis Communication and Planning

Authors

  • Tricia Ann Jordan Western Kentucky University
  • Paula Upright Western Kentucky University
  • Kristeen Tice-Owens Western Kentucky University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/JNEL-2016-V6-I2-6996

Keywords:

crisis management planning (CMP), crisis, crisis communication, image restoration

Abstract

A real crisis experienced by a national nonprofit organization is used in this case study to help students apply concepts associated with crisis management planning (CMP). Students are introduced to crisis planning, management, and communication strategies to help them develop the skills necessary to lead a nonprofit organization through a crisis. Concepts introduced in the theoretical background of the case provide students with a theoretical and a practical understanding of crisis, crisis management, crisis communication planning, and crisis communication strategies. Communication strategies presented are focused on image restoration strategies. The case is appropriate for undergraduate and graduate students preparing to work in the nonprofit sector. Instructors are encouraged to use this case in conjunction with discussions of public relations, crisis management, or crisis communication strategies. The sample assignments and discussion questions allow students to connect crisis management theory to a practical organizational crisis within a classroom setting. 

Author Biographies

Tricia Ann Jordan, Western Kentucky University

Tricia Jordan is an assistant professor of Sport Management in the School of Kinesiology, Recreation and Sport at Western Kentucky University. She also serves as the minor coordinator for the nonprofit administration undergraduate minor. Her research interests include volunteerism, sportsmanship, sport communication, and organizational leadership. She is a former executive director of the local United Way and YMCA professional staff member.  

Paula Upright, Western Kentucky University

Paula Upright is an assistant professor and the undergraduate program coordinator for the Sport Management program at Western Kentucky University. Prior to teaching full time, she spent 12 years working in college athletics as an associate athletic trainer. Her research interests include issues in youth sport, specifically the value of participation and behaviors, collegiate athletic policy, including student-athlete welfare and pedagogical improvements for sport and recreation programs.

Kristeen Tice-Owens, Western Kentucky University

Kristeen is a program specialist for the exercise science program within the School of Kinesiology Recreation & Sport at Western Kentucky University.  She holds a master's degree in communication. Her researcher interest include crisis communication.

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Published

2016-03-31

Issue

Vol. 6 No. 2 (2016)

Section

Teaching Case Study

License

Sagamore Publishing LLC (hereinafter the “Copyright Owner”)

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