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NCPC Hosting Free Webinar on Policy and the Media

October 1, 2021

UC Merced's Nicotine and Cannabis Policy Center (NCPC) and the American Heart Association are hosting a free webinar to provide insight on generating media coverage and helping change public perceptions on a variety of issues in the Central Valley.

"Policy and the Media - How to Influence Change and Get Your Message Heard" is being held on Tuesday, Oct. 5, from 1-2:30 p.m. Speakers with backgrounds in public relations and the news media will be on hand to share tips and tools they use to get their messages across.

Newsrooms across the country are inundated with press releases and event invitations daily. It can be difficult to get the attention of a news producer or reporter. This online presentation is meant to help those looking to cut through that clutter and be heard. Additionally, the discussion will focus on bridging policy action and the media.

"The media is a key partner in tobacco control and strong health policy," said NCPC Director and psychological sciences Professor Anna Song. "It isn't just a matter of relaying information; it's also about sharing experiences to empower and inspire communities."

Attendees will also hear the latest legislation that looks to restrict the sale of flavored tobacco in California and across the nation.

Participants include:

  • Anna Song, UC Merced psychological sciences professor and NCPC director
  • Jamie Morgan, American Heart Association government relations director
  • Phillip Gardiner, African American Tobacco Control Leadership Council co-chair
  • Salena Meade, program coordinator at California Health Collaborative, San Bernardino County
  • Kenneth Artry, El Sol Neighborhood Educational Center community health worker
  • Valerie Koch, American Heart Association - Central Valley communications director
  • Ana Ibarra, CalMatters reporter
  • Kathleen Schock, Valley Public Radio - Valley Edition host
  • Susanna Gonzales, KCSO-TV Telemundo 33 Sacramento reporter
  • Alex Mellor, NCPC head of operations
  • Juan Carlos Flores, UC Merced public information officer

Anyone interested in attending the free webinar is asked to register online. Additional information, including Zoom links, will be provided upon registration.

You can also visit the NCPC website for previous webinars and other resources.