Faculty Spotlight: School of Communication

From Netflix marathons to outdoor walks, these professors share what fuels their work, how they recharge, and what’s exciting in the world of communication.
Faculty Spotlight, School of Communication

We know it’s hard to believe, but professors have whole lives outside of the classroom (wild, right?!). We sat down with some professors to give you a glimpse of the human behind the title and the syllabus. It turns out they have favorite foods and pets and hobbies, too. Professors… they’re just like us!

Kailia Wright, Ph.D., Assistant Professor

What part of your work makes you most proud? 

My work with students, especially when they learn new skills, grow in confidence, and apply their knowledge.

What makes your day better?

My day gets better when I get a donut from The Salty! 

What is the most exciting thing happening in your field right now? 

The research coming out of the Human-Machine Communication field.

How do you recharge? 

Netflix, a nap, and an outdoor walk!

What is the most unusual food you have eaten? 

Squid and rice. 

Ronald Jackson, Ph.D., Professor, Executive Director, Communication Ph.D. Pipeline Program

What part of your work makes you most proud? 

Helping students imagine and achieve success.

What makes your day better? 

Great people, great relationships, and lots of sunshine

What is the most exciting thing happening in your field right now?

The most exciting and sometimes even the most scary thing that’s happening right now is artificial intelligence. It has so many implications for all aspects of our field.

How do you recharge? 

Relax with the Mrs., going to the beach, taking a walk, watching movies, and playing sports.

What is the most unusual food you have eaten? 

Ostrich, maybe. I went to this wild game dinner one time and they served all kinds of different animals.


You’ve met the humans behind the syllabi—next up, meeting you! We’ll see you on campus soon!


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