Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

2016

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.A. in Journalism

First Advisor

Cynthia Joyce

Second Advisor

Nancy Dupont

Third Advisor

Alysia Steele

Relational Format

dissertation/thesis

Abstract

This research examines the Mississippi Wireless Information Network (MSWIN) and its level of preparedness to avert the communication problems for the State of Mississippi that were seen during Hurricane Katrina in 2005, in the event of a similar crisis. It explores the technical workings of the network and the makeup of the Mississippi Wireless Communication Commission (WCC) who oversees MSWIN. It also takes a look at similar networks in Louisiana and Arkansas to compare and contrast those to what is in Mississippi. Primary interviews with the WCC, State of Mississippi officials, and others on the Mississippi Gulf Coast paint a picture of the current status of MSWIN and sentiment around the state on its existence. Funding, barriers-to-entry, and the public-private partnership that make it work are part of the research.

Concentration/Emphasis

Track: Academic

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