Expert available to discuss high stakes election debates

Hamilton, Ont. April 11, 2011—Alexandre Sévigny, an associate professor in the Department of Communication Studies & Multimedia, is available to discuss this week’s french and english debates.

Sévigny, who is an expert on debate preparation and performance, says it could change the entire landscape of the election.

“It will be fascinating to see what approach the leaders will take,” he says. “The public will be expecting authenticity, candour and sincerity from the leaders, not talking points, canned messaging and attacks. Social media has made the whole election feel like it is happening in the living rooms of the nation – it is making the whole spectacle feel very
real and very personal to individual Canadians. The Leaders had best take note of this and debate accordingly.”

Sevigny can be reached at 905-525-9140, ext. 27661 or sevigny@mcmaster.ca (*speaks French)

To view a clip of Sévigny discussing the use of social media on the campaign trail, visit:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w-lRS2b5ryc

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For more information contact:

Michelle Donovan

Public Relations Manager: Broadcast Media

McMaster University

905-525-9140, ext. 22869

donovam@mcmaster.ca