UMAC Networks
The UMAC leadership team has among its goals for the year to include more ways for communicators to learn from each other and to connect outside of our annual meeting. So we’re launching a series of webinars titled “UMAC Networks.” These are topic-focused opportunities to hear stories from communicators and to learn what they learned in various circumstances. The idea is to build community online, to learn skills that will help us better resource churches, conferences and agencies. And it will help you connect with fellow communicators across the denomination.
Check this page periodically for new opportunities.
Coming Up
Communication Tools to Navigate 2021
The times require creativity, flexibility, and quick pivots. Communicating effectively through these days is challenging yet critical. Learn some key skills to instill in you confidence for dealing with difficult conversations that trigger high emotions. Understand the issues and ways to de-escalate the rhetoric, ask powerful questions that will shape positive responses, and identify ways to hone your skills for clear communication with peers and supervisors.
Our featured guest will be the Rev. Dr. Karin Walker, senior pastor of Fallston United Methodist Church and experienced mediation coach.
When: Feb. 24, 1 p.m. EST
View Previous Networks Opportunities
Dismantling Racism: Part 2
ABC journalist Kenneth Moton is the featured guest in a discussion that explores how communicators must always monitor the types of stories they cover because privilege can, at times, impact editorial decisions. Moton provides insight into how to examine workflow and how he and other members of the media process and manage misinformation. This webinar was recorded Jan. 27, 2021.
Dismantling Racism - Part 2 from UMAC on Vimeo.
Dismantling Racism: The Role of the Communicator
In this webinar, panelists examined the role of communicators in this important work and opportunities for impact and change. Panelists included Bishop Cynthia Moore Koikoi of the Western Pennsylvania Conference; Bishop Thomas J. Bickerton of the New York Conference; Garlinda Burton, interim general secretary of the General Commission on Religion and Race; and Teresa Faust, senior manager of research and metrics for United Methodist Communications. Dr. Larry Hygh Jr. moderated this discussion on Dec. 9, 2020.
Communicating with Audiences Who Disagree
The Rev. Dr. Susan Henry-Crowe, general secretary of the General Board of Church and Society shares best practices for communicating to an audience that isn’t of one mind — a situation we all face. Evelyn Warren, a member of the UMAC leadership team and global marketing professional, moderated the conversation Oct. 21, 2020.
Communicating Disaster: Sharing Situational Awareness in Context and Chaos
Each of our communities has been impacted by natural disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, tornadoes, flooding, or mudslides. West Virginia Conference Director of Communications Deborah Coble and Louisiana Conference Director of Communications Todd Rossnagel moderated a panel discussion Sept. 23, 2020.
UMAC Networks: Disaster Response from UMAC on Vimeo.