About
Dr. Mimi Perreault’s research explores how journalists, emergency managers and strategic communicators work together to ensure people receive timely and actionable information when they need it most.
Her scholarship focuses on crisis communication, disaster journalism and community resilience, examining how information is produced and shared during times of uncertainty. She studies the role of local journalism in disaster recovery, the impact of misinformation on public understanding, and how social media and digital platforms shape communication during rapidly evolving events. Her work also highlights the unique communication challenges facing rural and underserved communities, with the goal of creating more equitable and effective approaches to public communication.
Impact Beyond the University
Perreault’s research extends well beyond the classroom through collaborations with journalists, emergency managers, and public communication professionals. By translating research into practical strategies, she helps organizations improve crisis messaging, strengthen community resilience, and build public trust during emergencies.
Her expertise has been recognized through speaking engagements at the Florida Governor’s Hurricane Conference, the Florida Meteorology Summit and national conferences hosted by the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication. She has also participated in community panels focused on hurricane preparedness and disaster response, helping connect research with real-world decision-making.
A Passion for Teaching and Public Service
Perreault believes students learn communication best by putting it into practice. Her teaching emphasizes experiential learning, connecting students with industry professionals and real-world challenges while encouraging them to think critically about strategic communication.
By integrating research with hands-on learning, she prepares students to become communicators who can navigate complex information environments with confidence. Through mentorship and community partnerships, she helps students understand how thoughtful communication can strengthen organizations, support communities and make a meaningful difference when it matters most.