St. Louis Public Library

Photo by John Koniak, St. Louis Public Library Title: St. Louis Public Library logo celebrating 150th anniversary
Source: John Koniak, St. Louis Public Library

ST. LOUIS PUBLIC LIBRARY BLACK HISTORY MONTH KEYNOTE SPEAKER: CRISIS MANAGEMENT EXPERT AND SCANDAL CO-EXECUTIVE PRODUCER JUDY A. SMITH

The St. Louis Public Library is proud to present its Black History Month Keynote Address by crisis management expert and co-executive producer of ABC's hit television program, Scandal, Judy A. Smith.  The founder and president of Smith &Company, a leading strategic and crisis communications firm in Washington, D.C., and Los Angeles, Smith will discuss an especially timely topic—Crisis 101: Surviving and Thriving in an Era of Perpetual Crisis and How It Relates to African-American History and Culture.  The program takes place at Central Library, 1301 Olive St., on February 22 at 2 p.m.  The event is FREE and open to the public.  Seating is first-come, first-served.  Members of the FRIENDS of the St. Louis Public Library should call 314.539.0359 for limited reserved seating.

Smith honed her skills through her experiences with some of the most historic and sensational events of our time, including the Iran-Contra investigation; the prosecution of former Washington, D.C., mayor, Marion Barry; the 1991 Gulf War; the Los Angeles riots; the Supreme Court confirmation hearings of Justice Clarence Thomas; and the Monica Lewinsky scandal.

In 1991, Smith joined the White House with her appointment as Special Assistant and Deputy Press Secretary to President George H.W. Bush. During her tenure she provided the president and his cabinet with communication advice on foreign and domestic issues.

Inspired by Smith, Shonda Rhimes, creator of ABC's hit television dramas Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice, developed a television drama about the world of crisis management. The series, Scandal, revolves around the life and work of a professional "fixer." Smith serves as co-executive producer and provides technical expertise.

Judy A. Smith is involved in many public policy matters facing the nation. She has worked with federal agencies and organizations on issues including the housing crisis, childhood obesity, education, and economic development.

For details, call 314.880.8759.

Books available for purchase courtesy of Amber Books.

Arrangements for the appearance of Judy A. Smith made through Simon & Schuster Speakers Bureau, New York, NY.

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