COM Research Seminar: Artificial Intelligence and Crisis Communication

02 Jun 2026 (Tue)

On 26 May 2026, Prof. Yang Alice Cheng from North Carolina State University delivered a seminar titled “Artificial Intelligence and Crisis Communication.”

In the seminar, Prof. Cheng explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping crisis communication mental health support and strategic public relations communication. Using the context of mass shootings in the United States, the presentation examined the emerging role of chatbots in post crisis response psychological support and community recovery. The talk also discussed AI triggered crises ethical challenges and the future of public relations in an increasingly AI driven world.





Faculty members and doctoral students from the Department of Media and Communication attended the session and engaged in a lively and intellectually stimulating discussion. In responding to questions from the audience, Prof. Cheng shared valuable insights on the role of artificial intelligence in crisis communication and public relations.

Dr. Cheng is a full professor in the Department of Communication and an adjunct professor in the Poole College of Management at NCSU, as well as an associate editor for the Journal of Contingencies and Crisis Management. She has demonstrated a long-term commitment to research involving global public relations management, social media, and artificial intelligence, and crisis communication. Dr. Cheng is an internationally recognized scholar in communication and artificial intelligence. She has been listed among Stanford University’s World’s Top 2% Most-Cited Scientists and has consistently ranked among the top 1% worldwide in the field of Communication and Media Studies.