Student Research: Candace Denison -Enhancing Misinformation Response in Local Government Communication

The School of Leadership Studies would like to extend our heartfelt congratulations to Candace Denison on the completion of a Master’s Thesis titled, Enhancing Misinformation Response in Local Government Communication.

This thesis is available through RRU’s library here: https://www.viurrspace.ca/handle/10613/28895

We asked Candace a few questions about this research and this is what they said: 

What are some key takeaways from your thesis that would be helpful for other leaders?

Misinformation isn’t going away, and it puts real pressure on communicators who are often left to manage it without the authority, tools, or support they need. Leaders can help by stepping in early, standing behind their communications staff in public, and treating misinformation response as a shared responsibility across the organization. Investing in scenario-based training, clear escalation protocols, and visible leadership involvement makes the biggest difference in protecting both trust and the well-being of staff.

How is the organization moving change forward based on your work?

Alberta Municipal Communication (AMC) members didn’t just participate in this research; they started acting on it right away. Findings have already been shared, a misinformation toolkit is in development, and training sessions are happening across Alberta. The organization is leaning into a stronger role as a connector by turning individual efforts into coordinated resilience and supporting members in practical and visible ways.

What surprised you about your experience of the thesis process?

I expected to hear about workload, but what stood out was the emotional toll. Communicators described themselves as “emotional first responders,” constantly monitoring, firefighting, and carrying the weight of public anger and mistrust. Their honesty reinforced for me that misinformation isn’t only a governance problem but also a human one. It showed that strengthening capacity requires both structural supports and attention to the well-being of the people doing this work.

How are you applying lessons learned from your whole MA-Leadership journey?

This journey taught me to look at challenges as part of larger systems and to keep curiosity, collaboration, and integrity at the center. I applied that by framing misinformation as a systems issue, not just a messaging problem. The program also gave me confidence to blend Western approaches and Indigenous ways of knowing, valuing relationships and trust alongside strategy and tools. These lessons continue to shape how I lead, advise, and support others in practice.