Dr. Janet O. Whitelaw

Janet Whitelaw is a Professor in the Department of Media & Communication at International University Canada, where she teaches and mentors students across the School of Arts & Social Sciences. Her academic work focuses on strategic communication leadership, examining how organizations develop and execute communication strategies that align with broader institutional goals while maintaining credibility with diverse audiences.

Throughout her academic career, Janet Whitelaw has developed a teaching approach that connects communication theory with organizational leadership practice, helping students understand how senior communication professionals shape messaging strategy, manage reputation, and guide organizations through both routine communication and crisis situations. She encourages students to think strategically about communication as a leadership function.

In her courses, Janet Whitelaw draws on organizational communication case studies, strategic messaging frameworks, and current research in communication leadership to help students understand the strategic dimensions of senior communication roles. Students explore topics such as strategic messaging development, stakeholder communication management, crisis communication leadership, and the alignment of communication strategy with organizational mission and values.

As a Professor within the Department of Media & Communication, Janet Whitelaw plays a leading role in shaping curriculum that prepares students for communication leadership roles within corporations, nonprofits, and public institutions. She works closely with colleagues across the School of Arts & Social Sciences to ensure that coursework reflects current best practices in strategic communication leadership.

Janet Whitelaw is particularly committed to mentoring students who aspire to senior communication leadership positions, helping them develop the strategic judgment and crisis management skills required to guide organizations through complex communication challenges. She designs coursework that combines strategic theory with practical exercises in crisis response and stakeholder management.

Recognizing that many of her students are working professionals studying online, Janet Whitelaw structures her courses with accessible case studies, clear strategic frameworks, and consistent opportunities for applied discussion. Her approach to online teaching emphasizes developing the kind of strategic communication thinking that translates directly into readiness for senior communication roles.

Students who study under Janet Whitelaw often highlight her ability to connect communication theory with genuine organizational leadership skill-building. Her long-term goal as an educator is to help students develop the strategic vision and leadership capability needed to advance into senior communication and public relations leadership roles.