Master’s in Strategic Communication
Strategy. Analysis. Leadership
If you are interested in growing professionally and intellectually as a strategic communication professional, the graduate program may be for you.
The mission of the Master’s in Strategic Communication program is to prepare responsible and professional thought leaders—through theories and skills in strategy, research, storytelling, new media, and leadership—for success in today’s competitive digital and global communication environments.
Learn, Work and Network.
Join leading professors on a thriving campus located in the 5th largest media market in the country.
Advance your Professional Goals.
Our graduates are hired into positions in advertising, public relations, digital media, corporate communication, non-profit communication, public communication, sports communication, and other positions that benefit from the expertise strategic communication students develop. Read about MS ’12 alumnus Nick Olivier’s experiences.
Gain Opportunities and Experience.
With TCU’s location in one of the largest media markets in the country, Strategic Communication students gain valuable experience from collaboration with brands, agencies, and non-profits in simulated and real-world, client-based communication projects, and through internships, networking, and job opportunities.
Financial Awards
We do not want the cost of a graduate education to prohibit you from pursuing your goals. We are able to support the goals of many of our students through merit-based tuition waivers that cover all or part of a student’s tuition and Graduate Teaching Assistantships that provide a monthly stipend to help with other expenses. These assistantships also provide students with the opportunity to work closely with faculty in ways that advance their understanding of the discipline.
Meet some of our Strategic Communication graduate students
Haaris Ahmed
Haaris Ahmed
Undergraduate Education: Political Science and Media Arts from University of North Texas
Hometown: Frisco, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
It has a special program that is suited for what I want to do in my career and is in a great school.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I majored in Political Science and Media Arts before at UNT and felt that Strategic Communication would be a good fusion of the two previous degrees. I would love to enhance my writing and journalism skills with this program.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I am very passionate about the politics of Capitol Hill and the policy created by our congressmen and women. My passions are not limited to that, however, and stretch into popular culture, sports and other areas.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I am an upcoming teaching assistant working for Dr. Lambiase. I enjoy the outdoors, as well as sports, running and movies.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I hope to take my skills and go into media where I can have creative roles such as producing for news outlets, reporting sites etc.
Kennedy Collins
Kennedy Collins
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Texas Christian University
Hometown: Austin, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
Growing up, Texas Christian University was always my dream school. I had such an incredible experience gaining my undergraduate degree from this university, thus putting TCU it at the top of my list when researching graduate schools. Having experienced first-hand the academic culture that TCU fosters through small course sizes and passionate professors, I couldn’t imagine a better university to further my education at.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
Having minored in Communication Studies at TCU, I was able to observe the strategic communications department from an outsider’s view. Throughout my undergraduate experience I have heard nothing but incredible things about the strategic communications program, professors, and curriculum, which is what initially sparked my interest in the program. This curiosity about the program paired with my fascination of advertising and strategic messaging made this program a no brainer.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
With the evolution of society comes a subsequent evolution in the trends, complications, and capabilities of digital marketing. Thus, creating an increased importance in message creation… requiring well-crafted messages that consider the evolving social and technological climate. More specifically, I am fascinated by the implications these technological and social advances will have on future trends. For example, how does the increased traction of influencer marketing compare to and alter the age-old approaches of advertising most businesses are used to?
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
Outside of classes I will continue my internship working for a local social media influencer. Having held this position part-time for the past two years, my role has continued to evolve and change in accordance with the brands rapid growth. Personal hobbies of mine include working out, finding time to spend with friends and family, as well as following politics and national news.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I would like to gain more experience in the social media marketing industry, then using that experience to develop a fresh way of social media communications and marketing. I believe that social media is the future, and will continue to change, which is a change I want to be at the front lines of.
Elizabeth Donnelly
Elizabeth Donnelly
Undergraduate Education: Sport Management from Texas A&M University
Hometown: Double Oak, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I chose TCU because I was looking for a graduate program at a school that was in a large city with resources that would help me expand my education, and provide support in helping me achieve my career goals.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I chose Strategic Communication because I wanted to concentrate my education in the field of public relations. I wanted to combine my background in sports and business with PR.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
Corporate social responsibility, marketing, and branding.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
Outside of classes I work as a Graduate Assistant for the Frog Club in the TCU Athletic Department, and spent the summer between my two years of grad school as an intern at the LDWW agency in Dallas.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduation I hope to pursue a career in corporate social responsibility in the sport industry.
Taylor Dye
Taylor Dye
Undergraduate Education: Strategic Communication from Texas Christian University
Hometown: Paris, Missouri
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I grew up in a town of 1,200 people my entire life, so when it came to choosing a college, I knew I wanted to go out of state to experience living in a different area. When touring colleges, I loved the tight-knit community of TCU, as well as the prestige of the academics and competitive sports teams. After attending TCU for my undergrad, I got the opportunity to participate in Schieffer’s accelerated program, in which I got to work toward my graduate degree during the final year of my undergrad.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
Growing up, I originally wanted to be a journalist because of my interest in writing, but when I learned about TCU’s Strategic Communication degree, I was intrigued by the possibility of going into advertising or public relations because of its vast possibilities for a career.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
The Fall 2021 semester is my last semester of graduate school, so my final project involves doing both primary and secondary research for a local mental health non-profit. Other communication-related interests of mine include influencer and tourism marketing.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
This summer, I worked as an Account Coordinator at 6th Ave Storytelling, a local marketing agency. During the fall semester, I will be a graduate assistant for Advertising and Social Media courses within the Schieffer College of Communication, as well as working on my final project to create a database of deliverables for a local client. My hobbies include yoga, reading, exploring local coffee shops, and going on walks on the Trinity Trails.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to work in Account Services in a DFW advertising or marketing agency. Then eventually, I would like to do communication for a mental health non-profit.
Alexis Filippone
Alexis Filippone
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Arts in Integrated Marketing Communications from Pepperdine University
Hometown: San Diego, California
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
Fort Worth is in such a prime location for media marketing, and this program is the next step for me. I chose TCU when looking at graduate programs because small class sizes are crucial for me, as well as studying at a faith-based university.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
Communication is so important in branding and storytelling. I’m interested in expanding my communication skills to develop my creative writing and utilizing different media effectively. I was drawn to Strategic Communication because of the recent growth of new media in relation to marketing and communications.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I’m interested in learning more about sports marketing and strategic communications for teams. I am also interested in learning more about consumer interests across different media. Specifically, research in consumer behavior and values.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
At Pepperdine, I was a member of the Waves Leadership Council and an ambassador for the Emily Shane Foundation. Annually, I have worked the Mindshare Summit Event for four years, a health and wellness conference for influencers around the world. Last fall, I interned with Refi.com and worked with their online marketing strategies. I also have played beach volleyball since I was eleven years old and it has been a huge part of my life. I played for four years at Pepperdine University, and I am honored with the opportunity to play on the TCU beach volleyball team for the 2021-2022 season and finish my career as a collegiate athlete.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
My passions closely align with sports and health since I’ve been a student-athlete for twelve years. My goal is to obtain a career in marketing post-graduation—specifically, sports marketing for a professional team or marketing in health and wellness.
Collin Gray
Collin Gray
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Texas Christian University
Hometown: Fort Worth, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I choose Texas Christian University because I was undergraduate here and I loved every minute of it. When I first applied as an undergraduate student, TCU just felt right to me and that feeling has stuck with me ever since. I believe with all the fantastic professors and staff; it’ll allow me to stand out among my peers once I’m out in the real world.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I choose to study Strategic Communication because I wanted to learn more about writing for the masses and how it gets distributed among society. I also believe this program is somewhat of an extension of my undergraduate degree of journalism. This program will allow me to further use my journalistic needs as well as utilizing new skills that are influential for Strategic Communication.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I’m interested in learning more about how society interacts with social media, misinformation, and the overall news and how it becomes intertwined in the media. I want to learn how people process the information, whether it’s true or not, and see how they use it daily.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I currently have a Teaching Assistant job with one of the professors for the upcoming school year and I can’t wait for the opportunity. Depending on how much free time I have this semester, I may look for an internship somewhere. When I’m not in class or studying, I’m hanging out with my friends, working out at the rec center, and playing some hockey in an adult league.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After I graduate, I hope to establish a career in the sporting industry, whether it’s a collegiate or a professional program because I’ve always dreamed of working in that industry. I’m also thinking about going into some type of politics or company that utilizes what I’ve learned here at TCU.
Tyler Hain
Tyler Hain
Undergraduate Education: Public Relations at Virginia Tech
Hometown: Wahiawa, Hawaii
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I took a risk.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I felt like public relations wasn’t enough and this expanded on it – I was not done learning.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I want to learn about being on the forefront of media innovation and coming up with new ways to do things. I am tired of the same old theories.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I like working out and finding the best coffee shops in DFW, I don’t have any internships right now, and my only true responsibility is a house plant I got as a housewarming gift.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I hope to work for a global technology company or in higher education.
Molly Little
Molly Little
Undergraduate Education: Mass Communication and Spanish from Louisiana State University
Hometown: Bentonville, Arkansas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
For undergrad, I was choosing between TCU and LSU and ultimately decided to attend LSU. When I was choosing a graduate school, I thought I would go to TCU (1) to get the experience I didn’t have in undergrad, (2) to network with professors and professionals in the DFW Metroplex, and (3) to learn and grow as a public relations professional.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I chose strategic communication because I have always wanted to pursue a career in public relations. I studied mass communication in undergrad and loved it, and I wanted to learn more about the field before entering the working world.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I am interested in learning more about social media and public relations in general. This year, I am especially interested in learning more about corporate social responsibility, global communications, and crisis communications.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
Outside of class, I am a teaching assistant for the Department of Strategic Communication. I am an adviser for Delta Gamma TCU-Gamma Tau and assist with public relations for TCU Catholic, where I am a member of a graduate group. Additionally, I am serving as the VP Student Engagement for Graduate Student Senate. Outside of class, I love spending time with my friends, exploring Fort Worth, traveling, and playing with my dog, Frankie.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduation, I would love to work for Jacobs in their Global Internal Communications department. This summer, I served as a Global Internal Communication Intern, and I loved every minute of it. I would be happy with any job in public relations, ideally for a large company or corporation.
Gabrielle Saleh
Gabrielle Saleh
Undergraduate Education: Bachelor of Science in Strategic Communication from Texas Christian University
Hometown: Bedford, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I had a wonderful experience at Texas Christian University during my time as an undergraduate student. My professors in the Strategic Communication program always supported me in my studies and future goals. They also encouraged me through the process of applying to graduate school, which greatly influenced my decision to continue my education at TCU for my master’s degree.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I greatly enjoyed studying Strategic Communication in TCU’s undergraduate program since it combined my interests in advertising, public relations and strategic writing. My passion for this field grew as I obtained internships and work experiences, and I knew that I wanted to continue learning about the intricacies of the industry at the graduate level.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
My research interests include nonprofit communication strategies and social media strategies, particularly in how the two areas intersect. Since I have worked and interned at several nonprofit organizations in their social media divisions, I would like to research the role social media plays in how nonprofit organizations fundraise, along with how nonprofits engage with their communities through various platforms.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
Previously, I worked at the National Audubon Society as a Walker Social Media Fellow, and I interned at the Dallas Zoo as a Public Relations and Social Media Intern. This summer, I am working at the University of North Texas Health Science Center as a Digital Communication Strategist, and I will be a teaching assistant in the fall. My absolute favorite hobby is birding—I love spending time watching birds and photographing them.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
After graduation, I hope to work in the nonprofit field, specifically focusing on crafting social media strategies for the organization. In the future, I hope to pursue a doctoral degree and one day teach at the collegiate level.
Reagan Schaefer
Reagan Schaefer
Undergraduate Education: Sport Management from Texas A&M University
Hometown: Columbus, Texas
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I chose TCU because I had an opportunity to work within the Athletics Department and I am so thankful that I am here. This campus, program, and being involved in athletics has been such a rewarding experience.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I knew that Strategic Communication would be a great program that TCU offers.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
Crisis communication in large corporations.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
Outside of school I work with the TCU Athletics Department in Facilities and Game Day Operations. I work closely with the soccer, equestrian, and football team while also assisting during basketball and baseball season. Outside of work and school, my hobbies include exploring the DFW area and traveling to new states for college football games.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
Explore a new part of the country and working in Public Relations or Crisis Communication.
Kasey Staley
Kasey Staley
Undergraduate Education: Integrative Public Relations from Central Michigan University
Hometown: Clare, Michigan
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I chose TCU because it was exactly what I was looking for when it came to the specific program I wanted as well as the athletics side. I originally was looking at TCU strictly because I was being recruited to run on the track team, but I quickly learned this was the program that would help me pursue my future goals.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I chose strategic communication studies because it fit my best skills and things that I learned in undergrad the most. Being that I was a Public Relations major, strategic communication is used in just about everything that you do.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I am very interested in the thought of crisis communication and how to efficiently communicate with the public when something of a certain degree happens.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
Outside of classes I will be a teaching assistant as well as a pole vaulter on TCU’s track team. When I am not doing those things, I enjoy golfing, playing tennis, and going for walks.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
My hope after graduating from the strategic communication program would to be working for a PR firm that specifically works on crisis management cases.
Imani Udoumana
Imani Udoumana
Undergraduate Education: Strategic Communications from Arkansas State University
Hometown: Nashville, Tennessee
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I had the opportunity to run track while also getting my M.S, win-win! I believe TCU will provide me with the opportunity to learn and become a young professional ready to work in the public relations, advertising, and non-profit field.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I strive every day to further develop my strategic skills and better myself for my career field. Strategic Communications is a better fit for me as I am creative, intuitive, and love to strategize ways to make something else better; this could mean in sales or branding and public image.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
I am interested in learning more about public relations/advertising and non-profit. One of my career goals is to create my own non-profit organization that includes an after-school athletics program for kids.
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I am a track and field athlete and a current Learfield Marketing Game Day Intern. (GoFrogs!) I’m also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated and always am looking for ways to improve and get active in the community I am in.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I hope to get into business development, advertising or promotions, or anything to do with non-profit.
Cam Zavaski
Cam Zavaski
Undergraduate Education: Marketing from Clemson University in South Carolina
Hometown: Topsfield, Massachusetts
Master’s Program: Strategic Communication
Why did you choose Texas Christian University?
I got a job within their athletic department as a graduate assistant.
Why did you choose strategic communication?
I felt that Strategic Communication would be a good addition to my Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing.
What are you interested in researching and/or learning about?
Sports PR and Communication
What are your internships, responsibilities, and/or hobbies outside of classes?
I work for the marketing department in TCU Athletics helping promote and produce games for all sports.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
Move back to the east coast and continue working in some combination of marketing and the sports industry.
A Letter from the Director
Dear Prospective Graduate Student,
On behalf of the faculty and students of the Department of Strategic Communication in the Bob Schieffer College of Communication at Texas Christian University, welcome to our Department. You have an interest in advancing your professional and intellectual goals and capabilities in areas of strategic communication, and we are honored that you are considering us as a program to advance those goals. At the same time, we know that pursuing a Master’s degree is an important decision. We look forward to learning more about you and to answering any questions you may have as you make these important decisions about your professional future.
In determining the right graduate program, applicants are often interested in the ways in which the program may support their professional and educational successes, including through the program’s emphases, faculty engagement and expertise, mentorship and program culture, professional development opportunities, location, timing, and cost. I hope to provide you with some helpful information about our program as you evaluate these and other considerations in making your decision…
Read in FullDear Prospective Graduate Student,
On behalf of the faculty and students of the Department of Strategic Communication in the Bob Schieffer College of Communication at Texas Christian University, welcome to our Department. You have an interest in advancing your professional and intellectual goals and capabilities in areas of strategic communication, and we are honored that you are considering us as a program to advance those goals. At the same time, we know that pursuing a Master’s degree is an important decision. We look forward to learning more about you and to answering any questions you may have as you make these important decisions about your professional future.
In determining the right graduate program, applicants are often interested in the ways in which the program may support their professional and educational successes, including through the program’s emphases, faculty engagement and expertise, mentorship and program culture, professional development opportunities, location, timing, and cost. I hope to provide you with some helpful information about our program as you evaluate these and other considerations in making your decision.
Emphases
TCU’s mission is to educate individuals to think and act as ethical leaders and responsible citizens in a global community. Our graduate program is committed to enacting this mission as we equip strategic communication professionals with a broadened understanding of theories and skills with emphases on strategy, research, storytelling, new media and leadership. To this end, students develop competencies and expertise across advertising and public relations courses that enable them to compete and lead, ethically and responsibly, in today’s digital and global world. A list of our graduate courses may be found in TCU’s Graduate Catalog: http://tcu.smartcatalogiq.com/current/Graduate-Catalog/Courses/STCO-Strategic-Communication.
Students benefit from TCU’s teacher-scholar model, which means that Master’s students are taught by versed professionals, thought leaders, and top scholars in strategic communication. It also means that we are committed to fostering an environment of rich intellectual and professional engagement with our students.
Faculty Engagement and Expertise
All graduate faculty in Strategic Communication are active in research and/or creative activities, teaching, and service activities that support the University, the discipline, and our communities. Our faculty have professional experience and scholarly expertise in advertising and public relations, including corporate communication, crisis communication, non-profit communication, public communication, health communication, community engagement, mobile, digital, and social marketing and advertising, consumer behavior, consumer culture, branding, corporate social responsibility, and ethics. In recent years, our faculty have been recognized for their work with various awards and honors, including: a Fulbright Scholar, the Jackson-Sharpe Award (2016, 2014, 2008), Senior Associate Editor for the Public Relations Journal, TCU Dean’s Award for Research, among many others. For a list of graduate faculty, see [link to Block 3: Graduate Faculty page].
Mentorship and Culture
Our focus is on maintaining a program that focuses on a smaller number (approximately 18-25) of in-residence graduate students. This means that students work closely with faculty and with each other to develop deeper understanding and stronger competencies in areas that advance their individual professional and intellectual goals. While all of our faculty are available to mentor graduate students and to lend their areas of expertise to a student’s development, each works closely with a faculty mentor and support committee to develop their capstone project or thesis. Additionally, our students benefit from the advice and experience of the networks of communication professionals and organizations who visit our classes and work with students in our program. Students also have access to a dedicated College of Communication Career Advisor to help guide them on next steps after completion of the Master’s degree.
Professional Development Opportunities
TCU’s location in one of the largest media markets in the country opens students to a vast network of local, national, and global companies. TCU’s role an important and positive part of the DFW community opens a vast array of opportunities. Faculty and staff regularly network with professionals and our strong alumni network. Strategic Communication students gain valuable experience from collaboration with brands, agencies, and non-profits in simulated and real-world, client-based communication projects, and through internships, networking, and job opportunities.
Cost
Many of our graduate students pay no tuition. We know the cost of continuing education can be a challenge. We are proud that we are able to offer many of our students merit-based tuition waivers and that cover all or part of a student’s tuition and Graduate Teaching Assistantships that provide a monthly stipend to help with other expenses. These assistantships also provide students with the opportunity to work closely with faculty in ways that advance their understanding of the discipline.
Location
Fort Worth, Texas is an exciting place for communication professionals. It is situated in the 5th largest media market in the country (according to Nielson) and is the 13th largest city in the United States and growing, based on population estimates released by the U.S. Census Bureau. With the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport minutes away, it is an international hub with easy access to travel around the world. As a business-friendly city with a strong cultural heritage, Fort Worth offers significant opportunity for communication professionals. Many local, national and international advertising and public relations organizations call this area home. While many may think of the Historic Stockyards as the feature of Fort Worth, the city boasts world-renowned art museums, music venues, sporting events, shops, and a plethora of community-based cultural opportunities. Don’t let the large size fool you. With a strong sense of community, thriving neighborhoods and a welcoming spirit, Fort Worth has a small-town feel with big-city benefits. For more information on Fort Worth, see: http://www.fortworth.com.
For more information on the Master’s of Science in Strategic Communication, including information on the application process, see:
Sincerely,
Catherine A. Coleman, PhD
Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies
Department of Strategic Communication
Texas Christian University
Nationally Recognized Faculty
Committed to Teaching and Mentoring
Josh Bentley
Public relations
Law
Crisis communication
Fundraising strategies
Nonprofit media
Josh Bentley
Associate Professor and Director of Graduate Studies
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Bentley, J. M. (2018). What counts as an apology? Exploring stakeholder perceptions in a hypothetical organizational crisis. Management Communication Quarterly, 32(2), 202-232.
- Bentley, J. M., Oostman, K. R., & Shah, S. F. A. (2018). We’re sorry but it’s not our fault: Organizational apologies in ambiguous crisis situations. Journal of Contingencies and Crisis Management, 26(1), 138-149.
- Yang, A., & Bentley, J. (2017). A balance theory approach to stakeholder network and apology strategy. Public Relations Review, 43(2), 267-277.
- Bentley, J. M., White, J. M., Weiss, D., & Shields, J. D. (2016). Teaching integrated marketing communication campaigns. Teaching Journalism and Mass Communication, 6(1), 18-35.
- Bentley, J. M. (2015). Shifting identification: A theory of apologies and pseudo-apologies. Public Relations Review, 41(1) 22-29.
Previous Experience
Assistant professor at the University of New Mexico. Morning show host and production director radio stations in Alabama, Arkansas, and Oklahoma.
Honors & Awards
- Top Faculty Paper, National Communication Association (Public Relations Division)
- Top Poster, Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (Public Relations Division)
- Top Student Paper, National Communication Association (Public Relations Division
- Top Student Paper, Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (Religion and Media Interest Group)
- Third Place Faculty Paper, Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (Public Relations Division)
Professional Affiliations and Associations
- National Communication Association
- Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication
Catherine Coleman
Advertising
Representation
Consumption
Consumer behavior
Gender and identity
Consumer culture
Ethics and consumer vulnerability
Marketing and (social) media discourse
Advertising history
Transformative consumer research
Social marketing
Catherine Coleman
Chair of Strategic Communication and Professor
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, “Gender Justice and the Market: A Transformative Consumer Research Perspective.”
- Journal of Advertising, “Advertising Professionals’ Perceptions of the Impact of Gender Portrayals on Men and Women: A Question of Ethics?”
- “Justice in Injustice, Power in Vulnerability: The Dialogical Potential of The Uncondemned.” in Consumer Vulnerability: Conditions, Contexts and Characteristics
- Journal of Popular Culture, “Starving for Diversity: Ideological Implications of Race Representations in Hunger Games.”
- Journal of Marketing Management, “Poverty in Consumer Culture: Towards a Transformative Social Representation.”
- Consumption, Markets & Culture, “Consumption and Gender Identity in Popular Media: Discourses of Domesticity, Sexuality, and Authenticity.”
- “Construction of Consumer Vulnerability by Gender and Ethics of Empowerment,” Gender, Culture, and Consumer Behavior
- Presented research to the Association for Consumer Research; Consumer Culture Theory Conference; Gender, Marketing and Consumer Behavior Conference; Macromarketing Conference; American Advertising Association Conference; Transformative Consumer Research Conference; and the European Association for Consumer Research Conference
- Journal of Public Policy & Marketing, “Gender Justice and the Market: A Transformative Consumer Research Perspective.”
- Journal of Advertising, “Advertising Professionals’ Perceptions of the Impact of Gender Portrayals on Men and Women: A Question of Ethics?”
- “Justice in Injustice, Power in Vulnerability: The Dialogical Potential of The Uncondemned.” in Consumer Vulnerability: Conditions, Contexts and Characteristics
- Journal of Popular Culture, “Starving for Diversity: Ideological Implications of Race Representations in Hunger Games.”
- Journal of Marketing Management, “Poverty in Consumer Culture: Towards a Transformative Social Representation.”
- Consumption, Markets & Culture, “Consumption and Gender Identity in Popular Media: Discourses of Domesticity, Sexuality, and Authenticity.”
- “Construction of Consumer Vulnerability by Gender and Ethics of Empowerment,” Gender, Culture, and Consumer Behavior
- Presented research to the Association for Consumer Research; Consumer Culture Theory Conference; Gender, Marketing and Consumer Behavior Conference; Macromarketing Conference; American Advertising Association Conference; Transformative Consumer Research Conference; and the European Association for Consumer Research Conference
Previous Experience
- University of Illinois, Department of Advertising
- Loyola University in Chicago
- Market Developer for the Health Sciences Group of the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA)
- Consultant for the City of Chicago Initiative, a Marketing Analyst for eVidient/GE Americom, a Recruitment Advertising Representative at TMP Worldwide, a Research Assistant at Public Opinion Strategies
- Prevention Specialist for the Rape Crisis Center of Chatham County, Georgia.
- University of Illinois, Department of Advertising
- Loyola University in Chicago
- Market Developer for the Health Sciences Group of the National Center for Supercomputing Applications (NCSA)
- Consultant for the City of Chicago Initiative, a Marketing Analyst for eVidient/GE Americom, a Recruitment Advertising Representative at TMP Worldwide, a Research Assistant at Public Opinion Strategies
- Prevention Specialist for the Rape Crisis Center of Chatham County, Georgia.
Honors & Awards
- Distinguished Visiting Scholar, School of Management (Marketing Group), Royal Holloway, University of London.
- Dean’s Research Grant Award, The Bob Schieffer College of Communication, TCU
- Coleman Fellow, Entrepreneurship
- Sheth Initiative on Vulnerable Consumers Research Grant
- Best Paper Award (Honorable Mention), Consumption, Markets & Culture
- Top Paper Award, Southwest Education Council for Journalism & Mass Communication Symposium
- Top Six Paper Award, Southwest Education Council for Journalism & Mass Communication Symposium
- American Association of University Women Dissertation Completion Fellowship
- James Webb Young Fund
- Verdell Frazier Award for Women
- Dean’s Research & Creativity Award, TCU.
- Distinguished Visiting Scholar, School of Management (Marketing Group), Royal Holloway, University of London.
- Dean’s Research Grant Award, The Bob Schieffer College of Communication, TCU
- Coleman Fellow, Entrepreneurship
- Sheth Initiative on Vulnerable Consumers Research Grant
- Best Paper Award (Honorable Mention), Consumption, Markets & Culture
- Top Paper Award, Southwest Education Council for Journalism & Mass Communication Symposium
- Top Six Paper Award, Southwest Education Council for Journalism & Mass Communication Symposium
- American Association of University Women Dissertation Completion Fellowship
- James Webb Young Fund
- Verdell Frazier Award for Women
Professional Affiliations and Associations
- Association for Consumer Research
- Consumer Culture Theory Consortium
- Macromarketing Society
- American Advertising Association
- Association for Consumer Research
- Consumer Culture Theory Consortium
- Macromarketing Society
- American Advertising Association
Ashley E. English
Contributions and community engagement strategies of faith-based organizations
Ashley E. English
Assistant Professor
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Megachurch involvement in economic development: Theoretical guidance for Organizational Decision-Making. Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action, Annual Conference, Chicago, IL.
- Theoretical understanding of church involvement in economic development: Examining the role of expectations on nonprofit action. Association for Research on Nonprofit and Voluntary Action, Annual Conference, Denver, CO.
- Extra-Role behavior and economic development: A study of the organizational behavior of megachurches, Annual Conference, Washington, D.C.
- The local government perspective of megachurches and extra-role behavior. Association for Research on Nonprofit and Voluntary Action, Annual Conference, Hartford, CT.
- The growth of megachurches: What impacts are they having on local economic development and who benefits? American Society for Public Administration, Annual Conference, New Orleans, LA.
Previous Experience
Senior manager of public relations and communications for a nonprofit organization that serves the North Texas region. Consultant for nonprofit organizations in the areas of professional development and volunteer management. Co-founder of the TCU Nonprofit Communicator Conference.
Honors & Awards
- Best Poster Award for the 45th annual ARNOVA Conference in Washington, D.C. Research topic: Megachurches and Practices of Managing Accountability on Websites
- Doctoral Fellows Seminar Award Recipient from the Association for Research on Nonprofit and Voluntary Action (ARNOVA)
- Diversity Scholars and Leaders award from ARNOVA
- 40 Under 40 leader for community involvement and service in the Dallas-Fort Worth area through the Dallas Furniture Bank
Professional Affiliations and Associations
- Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action
Amiso George
Risk and crisis communication Public relations Corporate communication
Amiso George
Professor
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Presented papers on public relations and crisis communication at national and international conferences and has published journal articles and book chapters in the same area
- Co-editor of Culture and Crisis Communication: Transboundary Cases from Nonwestern Perspectives.
- Co-editor of Case Studies in Crisis Communication: International Perspective on Hits and Misses
- Co-editor of Race, Gender and Other Minorities: Readings for Professional Communicators
- Editor for Sage Open Access (online) publisher
- Reviewer for Routledge, John Wiley and Oxford University publishers
Previous Experience
Former director of the TCU Strategic Communication graduate program. Developed and taught the first course in crisis communication. Director of the public relations program at the Reynolds School of Journalism, University of Nevada in Reno. Taught at University of Texas San Antonio. Worked as a radio and television journalist and freelance broadcaster at Nigerian Television Authority and Voice of America (Africa Service), a consultant for C-SPAN-TV in Washington, D.C., editor-at-large for Celebrate Your Heritage (CYH, and a public relations consultant. APR Accreditation Chair for the Greater Fort Worth PRSA. Former board member and vice chair of Ohio University Alumni Association. Plank Public Relations Fellow in the Corporate Communications Department at USAA. Conducted a workshop on crisis communication. Visiting associate professor of strategic communication at Swinburne University in Melbourne, Australia.
Dr. George is an external examiner for the public relations program at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR), Malaysia. Dr. George consults in risk and crisis communication.
Honors & Awards
- PRSA Fellow
- Accredited in Public Relations (APR)
- Winner of three Worthy (professional PRSA) awards.
- Distinguished Faculty Teaching Award at University of Texas San Antonio
- Stephen H. Coltrin Award for Excellence in Communication Education
- The Best of Texas award for her student teams at the Texas Public Relations Association (TPRA) Student Case Study Competition
- 2018 Bridge Award for Excellence in Strategic Communication Research by the International Crisis and Risk Communication Conference and the Nicholson School of Communication at the University of Central Florida
- 2017 PRSA Educator of the Year
- 2017 Carnegie African Diaspora Fellow by the Carnegie Corporation of New York (CCNY)
Professional Affiliations and Associations
- Public Relations Society of America
- International Communication Association
- International Association of Business Disciplines
Jong-Hyuok Jung
Advertising effectiveness in the new media environment
Mobile advertising/marketing
Digital advertising/marketing
Consumer behavior
Jong-Hyuok Jung
Associate Professor
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- International Journal of Advertising
- Journal of Business Research
- International Journal of Consumer Marketing
- International Journal of Mobile Marketing
- Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication
- American Academy of Advertising
- International Communication Association
Previous Experience
Assistant professor of advertising at the S.I. Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. Visiting professor at Saatchi and Saatchi, New York City. Broadcast producer at LG (currently GS) Home Shopping, Seoul, Korea. Web Designer at Seocho-District office, Seoul,Korea
Strategic Planner at CJ CGV, Seoul,Korea. Military Service (Translator & Supply Seargeant) 304th Signal Battalion, Eighth United States Army, Wonju, Korea.
Honors & Awards
- Advertising Education Foundation’s Visiting Professor Fellowship
- Profession Development Award, The University of Texas at Austin
- Gwyn David Media Endowment Scholarship, The University of Texas at Austin
- The Army Commendation Medal for Meritorious Service, Department of Army
Professional Affiliations and Associations
- American Academy of Advertising (AAA)
- Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC)
- Global Alliance of Marketing and Management Association (GAMMA)
Eunseon (Penny) Kwon
Marketing and persuasive communications in digital and social media environments
Consumer psychology
Branding
Media psychology
Eunseon (Penny) Kwon
Assistant Professor
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Journal of Advertising
- International Journal of Mobile Marketing
- Association for Educators in Journalism and Mass Communication conference
- American Marketing Association conference
- American Academy of Advertising
Previous Experience
Worked in Television industry in South Korea as content business manager. Sold TV shows abroad. Purchased award shows and TV shows from Japan, U.S., and U.K.
Professional Affiliations and Associations
- Member of Association of Consumer Research
- Member of American Academy of Advertising
- Member of Association for Education in Journalism & Mass Communication
- Member of American Marketing Association
Jacqueline Lambiase
Public sector communication and planning
Representations of gender, race, and sexualities in media and advertising
Computer-mediated and social media communication
Public relations ethics
Jacqueline Lambiase
Professor
Selected Academic Publications
“Apologies as identification management: A theoretical model.” (2021). Public Relations Review. DOI: 10.1016/j.pubrev.2021.102025, with J. Bentley and A. George.
“Passing the test: Lessons from a school district’s discourse of renewal before, during and after Hurricane Harvey.” (2020). Journal of Contingencies and Crisis Management, DOI: 10.1111/1468-5973.12301, 1-11, with A. English.
“Time’s Up/Advertising: Where’s the discussion now? And around what table?” (2020). Advertising and Society Quarterly, 21(1). DOI: 10.1353/asr.2020.0006, with C. Bronstein.
“Searching for city hall, digital democracy, and public-making rhetoric: U.S. municipal websites and citizen engagement.” (2018). Journal of Public Interest Communications, 2(1), 85-106.
“’Mythologized for its misogyny’: Fighting gender discrimination in the advertising industry.” (2018). Feminist Media Histories, 4(4), DOI: 10.1525/fmh.2018.4.4.185, with C. Bronstein.
“#WomenNotObjects: Madonna Badger takes on objectification.” (2018). Advertising & Society Quarterly, 19(1). DOI: 10.1353/asr.2018.0011, with C. Bronstein.
“Penalties off the field: Exploring social media policies for university athletes.” (2017). Journal of Social Media in Society, 6(3): 368-405, 2017, with B. McAdow, J.H. Jung, & L. Bright.
“Women vs. brands: Sexist advertising and gender stereotypes motivate trans-generational feminist protests.” (2017). In K. Golombisky and P. Kreshel (Eds.) Feminists, Feminisms and Advertising, pp. 29-59. New York: Rowman, with C. Bronstein and C. Coleman.
“Considering certification?: An analysis of universities’ communication certificates and feedback from public relations professionals.” (2016). Journal of Public Relations Education, with J. O’Neil.
Two books | Sex in Advertising: Perspectives on the Erotic Appeal, 2006; Sex in Consumer Culture: The Erotic Content of Media and Marketing, 2003; both co-edited/co-authored with Tom Reichert for Erlbaum.
Previous Experience
Tenured faculty member, Mayborn School of Journalism, University of North Texas (1996-2009).
Graduate Teaching Assistant, University of Texas-Arlington, 1993-1995.
Served as a spokeswoman for Potomac Edison, an East Coast electric utility serving Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia (1987-1990).
Worked as a wire editor, business reporter, and news editor at several suburban newspapers owned by the Belo Corp. (1984-1986).
Honors & Awards
Frank W. and Sue Mayborn School of Journalism Distinguished Professional Achievement Award, UNT, April 2020.
Bob Schieffer College of Communication Award for Distinguished Achievement as a Teacher-Scholar, 2017.
A Top Faculty Refereed Research Paper for the Cultural and Critical Studies Division; and a Top Teaching Panelist, for the refereed GIFT (Great Ideas for Teachers) session, PR Division; AEJMC, 2017.
The Jean Giles-Sims Wise Woman Award, TCU Women and Gender Studies, 2016.
Schieffer College of Communication Faculty Member of the Year, Student Government Association, 2014-15.
First Place and Wilcox Award for Refereed Teaching Research, with Julie O’Neil, Public Relations Division, Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication, 2014.
The Cheryl A. Soward Communicator of Distinction Award from the Texas Association of Municipal Information Officers, 2014.
Finalist for the Wassenich Award for Mentoring in the TCU Community, and Top Prof by the TCU Mortar Board Society, 2011.
Alan Scott Rising Star Award from the Texas Public Relations Association, 2010.
Professional Affiliations and Associations
Founder and Director, TCU Certified Public Communicator program, 2013-present.
Founder and Co-Director, TCU Nonprofit Communicator Conference, 2009-present.
Elected Committee Member, AEJMC Publications Committee, 2020-2023.
Editorial Board Member, Advertising & Society Quarterly, 2018-present.
Editorial Board Member, Journal of Public Interest Communications, 2019-present.
Board Member, TCU Press, 2018-present.
Board Member, Higher Education Representative, Workforce Solutions of Tarrant County, 2020-present.
Past Division Chair, Cultural and Critical Studies Division, AEJMC.
Member, Cultural and Critical Studies Division, Commission on the Status of Women, and PR Division of the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication.
Core/Affiliated Faculty, TCU Department of Women and Gender Studies and Department of Comparative Race and Ethnic Studies.
Liang (Lindsay) Ma
Crisis management
Consumer-brand relationships
Branding
Consumer behaviors
Campaigns
Advanced quantitative methodology
Liang (Lindsay) Ma
Assistant Professor
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Journal of Public Relations Research
- Public Relations Review
- Journal of Applied Communication Research
- Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication
- International Public Relations Research Conference
Previous Experience
Public relations in China.
Wendy Macias
Advertising
Health Communication
Pharmaceutical advertising
Wendy Macias
Associate Professor and Associate Dean of Undergraduate Studies
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
- Journal of Advertising
- Journal of Health Communication
- Health Communication
- Journal of Current Issues and Research in Advertising
- Health Marketing Quarterly
- Pharmaceutical Medicine
- International Journal of Advertising
- Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication
Previous Experience
Sales promotion, market research and marketing. Associate professor of advertising at the University of Georgia.
Julie O’Neil
Public relations
Internal communication
Corporate social responsibility
Measuring and evaluating communication programs and public relationships
Julie O’Neil
Professor and Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Administration
Selected Academic Publications and Presentations
Men, R.L., O’Neil, J. & Ewing, M. (2020, August). “From the employee perspective: Organizations’ administration of internal social media and the relationship between social media engagement and relationship cultivation,” International Journal of Business Communication, 1-28. doi: 10.1177/2329488420949968
Men, R.L., O’Neil, J. & Ewing, M. (2020, January). “Examining the effects of internal social media usage on employee engagement,” Public Relations Review, 46(2), 1-9. doi: 10.1016/j.pubrev.2020.101880.
Ewing, M., Men, R. L. & O’Neil, J. (2019, February). Using social media to engage employees: Insights from internal communication managers. The International Journal of Strategic Communication, 13(2), 110-132. doi: 10.1080/1553118X.2019.1575830
O’Neil, J., Eisenmann, M., & Holman, M. (2019). A mixed methods examination of how people assess the credibility of sources used by public relations practitioners. The Journal of Promotion Management, 25, 1-21. https://doi.org/10.1080/10496491.2018.1536619
O’Neil, J., Ewing, M., Smith, S. & Williams, S. (2018). A delphi study to identify standards for internal communication. Public Relations Journal, 11(3), 1-16.
O’Neil, J. & Eisenmann, M. (2017). “An Examination of How Source Classification Impacts Credibility and Consumer Behavior,” Public Relations Review, 43(2), 278-292.
O’Neil, J. & Lambiase, J. (2016). “Considering Certification?: An Analysis of Universities’ Communication Certificates and Feedback from Public Relations,” Journal of Public Relations Education, 2(1), 34-46.
Eisenmann, M., O’Neil, J., & Geddes, D. (2015). An examination of the validity, reliability, and best practices related to the standards for traditional media. Research Journal of the Institute for Public Relations, 2(1), 1-28. IPR Signature Study.
Previous Experience
Public relations and marketing in multiple settings: agency, corporate, and nonprofit. Teaching and researching public relations for more than 20 years. Former Division Chair and Director of Graduate Studies in the Strategic Communication Department at TCU.
Honors & Awards
- Bob Schieffer College of Communication Faculty Research Nominee, 2020
- Public Relations Society of America Employee Communication Award, International Public Relations Research Conference (IPRRC), 2019 & 2018
- Jackson Sharpe Award for best co-authored research paper by a public relations academic and professional, IPRRC, 2016, 2014, & 2008
- Institute for Public Relations Top Three Paper Award, IPRRC, 2017 & 2007
- Bob Schieffer College of Communication Award for Distinguished Achievement as a Teacher-Scholar, 2016 & 2014
Professional Affiliations and Associations
Arthur Page Society member
Senior Associate Editor, Public Relations Journal
Measurement Commission of the Institute for Public Relations
Commission on Public Relations Education Commission Board Member
International Public Relations Research Advisory Committee
Journal of Public Relations Education Editorial Board
Public Relations Society of America member
Association of Education in Journalism and Mass Communication member