by Miranda Hodges

The University of West Georgia will welcome alumna and UWG Foundation Board of Trustees member Amanda Lucey ’06 to campus for a special book signing event on Thursday, April 24, celebrating the release of her new co-authored book, “Upheaval: Crafting a Culture & Managing Your Message Through a Crisis.” 

This homecoming will be a rich time of insight and practical lessons for students, faculty and leaders across all industries. “Upheaval” offers a behind-the-scenes look at crisis communications during the COVID-19 pandemic, drawing real-world experiences and documenting the breakdowns and breakthroughs that occur when communication, culture and leadership coalesce.  

“This book is a reflection that documents or shares real experiences that highlight what happens when you neglect your brand and storytelling,” said Lucey. “In the absence of information, people will create their own narratives. That’s the danger of silence in a crisis.” 

As CEO of The Partnership, Lucey was brought in during one of the most fraught moments in recent healthcare history to restore public trust and manage messaging for a local healthcare system in Southwest Florida. “Upheaval” – which she co-authored with Paul Hiltz, president and CEO of Naples Comprehensive Health –highlights the professional and human challenges of a national crisis.  

“Universally, we learned so many lessons during the pandemic,” explained Lucey, who leads Atlanta’s oldest privately held marketing and brand communications agency. “This book is about remembering – remembering our humanity during the darkest days, recognizing what we went through and using those lessons to lead better in the future.” 

While healthcare professionals and communications and brand practitioners are the book’s immediate audience, Lucey believes “Upheaval” has broader relevance. Leaders in any industry, especially those in public relations or organizational development, will find tangible strategies for brand communications and navigating uncertainty.  

At the heart of her message is the power of storytelling, something she discovered and nurtured during her time at UWG. As a former reporter and editor-in-chief for The West Georgian and alumna of the School of Communication, Film and Media, Lucey credits UWG for shaping the communicator she is today.  

“Storytelling is the core of who I am and why I do what I do,” said Lucey. “That started right here at UWG. Whatever you’re doing, whether it’s healthcare, education or agriculture, people connect through stories.”  

Lucey, who also serves on SCFM’s Professional Advisory Board, said coming home to her alma mater for the event on April 24 will be akin to “an out-of-body experience.” But more than anything, it’s a moment of pride.  

“If alumni can bring attention to UWG, I am proud to do that,” she explained. “As alumni and brand ambassadors, we have a responsibility to tell the UWG story and share our success. This is where it all began for so many of us.”  

All proceeds from “Upheaval” will go back to the healthcare system that inspired it – furthering demonstrating Lucey’s commitment to serving and uplifting foundational industries that often bear the brunt of crises.  

The book signing will take place Thursday, April 24, from 2-5 p.m. in the Tanner Health School of Nursing (305 West Georgia Drive in Carrollton). Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Lucey, hear more about the stories behind “Upheaval” and walk away with a signed copy of the book.