Standard B

Oral communication is a fundamental skill in public administration, requiring professionals to deliver concise analysis, foster productive discussions, and convey complex information using visuals. Throughout my time in the MPA program, I have refined my ability to present structured and well-organized information to diverse audiences to ensure clarity and engagement.

Before entering the MPA program, my presentation style was shaped by my experience briefing soldiers and coordinating with military and government personnel- where clarity, efficiency, and command presence are key. While these skills provided a solid foundation, this program has refined my ability to tailor presentations to different audiences, particularly in academic and policy-oriented settings. I have gained valuable techniques for structuring narratives, integrating impactful visuals, and fostering interactive discussions. The following artifacts demonstrate my growth in oral communication and capably adapting presentation styles to various professional contexts.

The first performance objective of Standard B requires the ability to present analysis succinctly and engage in productive discussion. To support this objective, I selected my “Lahaina – Disaster in Paradise” presentation, which examined the Lahaina Fire on the Island of Maui and its local, state, and federal disaster response failures.

This presentation provided a timeline of key events, policy implications, and an assessment of governmental response efforts, which allowed for an engaging discussion on disaster preparedness, interagency coordination, and public trust. By summarizing a complex policy issue in a structured format while encouraging audience participation, this artifact demonstrates my ability to present analysis concisely while fostering engagement in meaningful discussions.

Performance objective two requires conveying complex ideas both orally and through visuals. I demonstrated this skill by presenting two specific sections—the three-phase hiring process and the five steps of the interview process—in a group presentation on a recruitment plan for Friends of the Earth International.

My portion of the presentation broke down the Prepare, Search, and Select phases of recruitment and how selection committees assess candidates through structured evaluation criteria. I used visual aids such as hiring timelines, process flowcharts, and interview scoring rubrics to clarify procedural details and enhance audience understanding. By focusing on key recruitment processes and integrating professional-quality visuals, this artifact demonstrates my ability to communicate detailed technical content in a structured and accessible manner.

Performance objective three requires communicating information through multiple formats to reach different audiences. I selected my USDA Disaster Support for Farmers process map to support this objective, which visually outlines how farmers apply for and receive federal assistance following an emergency declaration.

This single-page process map simplifies a complex bureaucratic process by clearly identifying decision points, eligibility requirements, and funding pathways. By presenting information in a visual format rather than a traditional slide deck or written report, I demonstrated my ability to adapt communication methods based on audience needs. This artifact highlights my skill in translating technical procedures into a simplified and accessible format that benefits policymakers, administrators, and farmers alike. Furthermore, this easy-to-follow graphic can be clearly understood by those not personally attending the presentation.