Innovation Mindset

Effective Communication for the Public Good

Led by: Jill Abramson & Congressman Brian Baird

Clear, trustworthy communication is essential to a healthy democracy. In this session, former Congressman Brian Baird joins moderator Jill Abramson to discuss how public leaders and institutions can better inform, engage, and serve the public. Drawing on experiences from Capitol Hill, media, and civic life, they will explore practical strategies for communicating complex issues with honesty, clarity, and respect. Participants will gain insights into how effective communication can strengthen civic trust, counter misinformation, and advance the public good

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

Identify communication practices that help public leaders present complex issues with honesty, clarity, and respect.
Apply strategies for strengthening civic trust and countering misinformation in their own institutional or community contexts.
Assess how transparent and trustworthy communication can improve public engagement and support democratic outcomes.