Speaking for the President: The Role of the White House Press Secretary

April 16th, 2015 marked the sixth annual Media & Politics Symposium, which focused on the roles of the White House Press Secretary, and the challenges they face while in office. Panelists included Former White House Press Secretary for George W. Bush, Scott McClellan; Former Press Secretary for three Louisiana State Senators, Robert Mann, and Former CBS News Middle East Correspondent, and Dean of Murrow College, Lawrence Pintak.

Scott McClellan, now Vice President of Communications at Seattle

University, started the discussion with his recount of 9/11, and the events leading up to him taking on the White House Press Secretary Role in 2003. He described his experience dealing with the press and reporters during a very controversial and difficult time when the U.S. was invading Iraq.

Journalist and Manship Professor at Louisiana State College, Robert Mann, spoke on the importance of a cordial relationship with reporters, and shared his list of do’s and don’ts when working with them -many of which he said he learned from experience.

Lawrence Pintak touched on what both McClellan and Mann discussed, and about his experiences as a News Correspondent. The floor was then opened to a very engaged Q & A.

Watch the discussion here

 

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