In recent years, the role and relationship of social media and government has become increasingly significant. Social media in its essence is utilized as a tool for communication, outreach, and public engagement.  It helps County officials disseminate information, announce policies, and interact with citizens in real-time.  Social media also plays a vital role in mobilizing social and political change, allowing constituents to express their views and organize for change.

However, this relationship is not without challenges.  Social media can be a double-edged sword as it may facilitate the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation, making it challenging to control the narrative.  Other questions may be raised with regard to privacy, censorship, and the role of tech companies in regulating public discourse.

In this seminar, we will examine the pros and cons of social media within the context of County and government business processes and how County managers can navigate these challenges in their workplace environments.

Speakers:

Brenda Duran

Media and Communications Specialist

Los Angeles County Justice, Care, and Opportunities Department

Brenda Duran is a highly accomplished media and communications specialist with a notable nine-year tenure in Los Angeles County. Her career has been marked by significant contributions in key roles, including Communications Manager for the Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder County Clerk and Deputy Executive Officer of Communications and Creative Services at the Executive Office of the Board of Supervisors. In these positions, she played a pivotal role in initiating and expanding the social media presence of both departments, significantly enhancing their public outreach. Currently, Brenda holds the position of Director of External Affairs for the newly established Los Angeles County Justice, Care, and Opportunities Department.

Brenda's expertise lies in crafting strategic and concise messaging for a wide array of Los Angeles County public programs and initiatives. Her portfolio includes the successful launch of numerous multimedia campaigns spanning various mediums, such as editorial and TV spots, social media engagement, outdoor billboards, and public service announcements endorsed by notable public figures. She has also excelled in developing comprehensive communication plans and directing social media strategy.

Prior to her illustrious career in Los Angeles County, Brenda made her mark in print media as a newspaper reporter and magazine editor. In this capacity, she oversaw the implementation of various digital platforms to expand the reach of content online.

Brenda's educational background is rooted in journalism, having earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Southern California Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism in Los Angeles. Her diverse experiences and extensive skill set place her at the forefront of media and communications, making her a vital contributor to the success of various public programs and initiatives in Los Angeles County. 

Judith M. Green

Countywide Communications

Chief Executive Office

Judith M. Green currently serves as a Communications Specialist for the Los Angeles County Chief Executive Office. Previously, Judith served as the Social Media Specialist for Los Angeles County
Child Support Services, the Public Information Officer for the Los Angeles County Public Defender, and the Special Projects Media Coordinator for the Los Angeles County Emergency Operations Joint Information Center (JIC). Judith was instrumental in building digital operations in the JIC and is responsible for creating the County's Emmy Awarding Winning The Risk is Real campaign. Under CEO Countywide Communications, Judith currently oversees the communication effort of BREATHE: LA County's Guaranteed Income Program, which is now the most extensive guaranteed income program in the nation. As a self-motivated professional with over 15 years in public service, Judith is known for delivering qualitative results. She has successfully designed and implemented county, state, and national award-winning digital marketing campaigns. Judith holds a B.A. from California Baptist University, specializing in Mass Communications and New Media. 

Shiara Davila Morales

Public Affairs Manager

Department of Children and Family Services

With more than 20 years of professional experience, Shiara Dávila-Morales has held various strategic communications roles in the public and private sectors always advancing values of transparency, accountability and positive social change.   

Currently, she is communications manager for the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).  There, she leads a high-performing team in the execution of internal and external communications, including crisis messaging, media relations strategies, executive communications, and social and digital media practices.

Prior to joining DCFS, Shiara worked for the first woman, African American District Attorney in the history of Los Angeles County.  At the District Attorney’s Office, she worked with executives and legal staff on a number of high-profile matters, including officer involved shootings, celebrity criminal cases and issues of departmental policies. 

Shiara is a graduate of the Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism at the University of Southern California and holds a graduate degree in public administration from California State University, Los Angeles. She also is accredited by the Public Relations Society of America.

Armando Viera

Deputy, Sheriff’s Information Bureau

Sheriff's Department

Armando Viera Jr. is a seasoned law enforcement professional with a distinguished 17-year tenure as a Deputy Sheriff within the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Currently, he serves in a pivotal role at the Sheriff's Information Bureau, as Public Information Officer and social media manager/trainer with the Electronic Communications Triage Unit (eComm) contributing to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department‘s effective online presence. He has dedicated the past four years to imparting crucial knowledge to the public and Department members.

Armando’s instructional focus is on the responsible and secure utilization of electronic and web-based communication, including the enforcement of social media policies.

Armando's commitment to excellence extends beyond his law enforcement career. He holds an MBA with a specialization in Organizational Leadership from Ashford University, demonstrating his dedication to continued learning and professional growth. Furthermore, he possesses a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Cal Poly Pomona University, reflecting his well-rounded educational background.

Notably, Armando has completed the prestigious POST Intermediate Instructor Course, further enhancing his expertise and ability to provide invaluable training and guidance to his colleagues and the community.