Robert R. Ulmer
Calming Voice During Times of Crisis
When the unexpected happens, Professor Rob Ulmer of the College of Professional Studies springs into action. For almost 10 years, the associate professor of speech communication has been a recognized expert in the field of crisis communication, working to calm the waves created by an emergency. He was one of the first to focus research on finding positive results from a disruptive wave of crisis. This approach is now used throughout the business and health communities as a way to communicate crisis-driven information effectively.
A preeminent authority in the field of crisis communication, Dr. Ulmer is author of three books and 37 articles integral to the study of communication in response to disaster, whether it is manmade or natural. His expertise has been recognized both on the local level and internationally; his article “Effective Crisis Management through Established Stakeholder Relationships” has been named one of the most frequently downloaded articles on Sage Publications’ electronic journals.
“In studying crisis communication for 15 years, I’ve looked for organizations that respond effectively,” Ulmer said. “But that approach requires a change in mindset.
“Ethical communication is essential to creating renewal following a crisis because a crisis can expose the values of a corporation – good or bad – for all to see,” he continued.
Professor Ulmer’s research has also brought positive attention to UALR. The University has been named as having one of the top 10 programs nationally in the field of public relations. This ranking is solely based on the strength and credibility of his research in crisis communication. Dr. Ulmer has also influenced many of his students’ choice of career and has helped several develop funded research opportunities. By engaging newer communication professionals in the excitement of research, Dr. Ulmer continues to make ripples in his chosen field.
Dr. Ulmer earned his bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Saskatchewan, his master’s degree in speech communication from North Dakota State University, and his doctoral degree in speech communication from Wayne State University. He is a member of the International, National, and Central States Communication Associations and has managed public relations for the Central States Communication Association.