April 16, 2013
Experts available to discuss Boston Marathon tragedy and aftermath
Hamilton, Ont. April 16, 2013—In the wake of the worst attack on U.S. soil in more than a decade, athletes, families and law enforcement agencies are struggling to answer one question — why?
McMaster experts from a variety of research areas are available to comment on the developing story in Boston.
Emergency Response:
Dr. Ira Price, assistant professor, Emergency Medicine, with a special interest in disaster medicine, is available to comment on the role of medical professionals and first responders during a large-scale public event. Price served as medical director during the 2013 Around the Bay Road Race in Hamilton, Ont., and coordinated a disaster relief simulation at Hamilton General Hospital in 2010. He can be reached at ira.pmpc@gmail.com. (Available for interviews after 5 p.m. on Tuesday, April 16).
Social Media and Sharing Information:
Alex Sévigny, director, Master of Communications Management Program, is available to comment on the role of social media following a large-scale disaster. “Social media has become a rallying point for giving voice to the emotions and grief experienced collectively by Americans and internationally,” says Sévigny. “The photos and testimonials made the event feel very real and very close to everyone who has a social media account.” He can be reached at 289-339-8325 or sevigny@mcmaster.ca. (Speaks French).
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For more information, please contact:
Andrew Baulcomb
Public Relations Coordinator
McMaster University
905-525-9140, ext. 23585
Michelle Donovan
Public Relations Manager
McMaster University
905-525-9140, ext. 22869