Welcome
As a professor of public relations and strategic communication, I believe great teaching is a creative, collaborative process. This page offers an inside look at the methods and philosophies that shape my classroom, from hands-on campaign design and student-led strategy presentations to values-driven pedagogy rooted in critical thinking and inclusivity. Whether I'm guiding students through brand storytelling or exploring global media ethics, my goal is always to connect theory with practice in meaningful, student-centered ways.
My Pedagogical Approach
My teaching philosophy is rooted in creativity, energy, and relationship-building. I believe education should empower students to discover their voice, engage critically with the world, and gain the tools needed to lead with both clarity and compassion. As a public relations educator, I view communication not just as a technical skill but as a way of thinking, strategically, ethically, and empathetically.
In the classroom, I create high-energy, inclusive spaces where students can explore complex ideas, collaborate across differences, and take intellectual risks. My pedagogy is deeply influenced by experiential learning, cross-cultural communication, and a constructivist pedagogy. I integrate real-world projects, creative tools, and storytelling to support students’ growth as critical thinkers and strategic communicators. I also prioritize inclusive practices that recognize the cultural strengths and perspectives each student brings.
At the core of my approach is the belief that teaching is an immensely creative act. It requires adaptability, imagination, and purpose. It requires heart. Whether I’m guiding a team through a PR pitch, designing a new Canvas course, or leading a class discussion, my aim is to always cultivate curiosity and inspire students to bring their full selves to the learning process. My mission is to not solely teach public relations, but to genuinely inspire communicators to lead with creativity, drive, and passion.
Teaching with Creativity: My Public Relations Campaigns
In my public relations and creative advertising courses, I guide students through the process of becoming strategic thinkers and creative problem-solvers. Below are three public relations campaigns I developed to serve as models for students as they design their own comprehensive campaign projects.
Green Is The New Apple
Objective: Rebrand Apple as a global leader in environmental sustainability through cause marketing.
Strategy: RACE model, PESO integration, psychographic targeting, branded event planning, and ambassador storytelling.
Creative Deliverables: Instagram grid, branded content calendar, C-Suite pitch deck, ROI projection dashboard.
GOYA “Sabor de Mi Tierra” Community Heritage
Objective: Reconnected Latin families with their heritage through storytelling and food, addressing generational identity loss and cultural disconnection
Strategy: PESO model focused on bilingual outreach, influencer voices, nostalgia-based visuals highlighting Latin pride
Creative Deliverables: Community cookbook microsite, video interviews, branded aprons, bilingual posters, social recipe reels, press kits, pop-up kitchens
Tesla x Grok “Drive Smarter”
Objective: Repositioned Tesla as a future-forward mobility brand via integration with Grok AI and partnership with Microsoft Azure
Strategy: PESO model, Gen Z/Millennial audiences, localized content, influencer engagement
Creative Deliverables: Branded merchandise, AR demos, interactive microsite, docuseries, press kits, sticker packs, influencer assets, showroom mockups, and UGC social campaigns.
My Public Relations Lectures
I design my lectures to equip students with the tools and confidence they need to thrive in the fast-evolving world of public relations. Each lecture is built around a central strategic concept, such as audience analysis, platform-specific messaging, or integrated media planning, and delivered through a mix of visuals, case studies, and interactive discussions. I regularly incorporate models like PESO and RACE, and I draw on current industry trends to connect theoretical content with real-world application.
Creativity is a consistent thread throughout my instruction. Whether we’re analyzing the evolution of influencer marketing or breaking down a campaign’s KPIs, I encourage students to explore communication as both a science and an art. My lectures are not just about information delivery, they’re about sparking ideas, making learning accessible, and helping students find their own voice as future communication professionals. Students often comment that these sessions help them build confidence, understand messaging nuance, and feel more prepared to enter the field.
Teaching with E-Portfolios
In my public relations and leadership communication courses, I guide students through the process of building professional e-portfolios that blend storytelling, design, and strategic communication. This section features select final portfolios from courses such as LDR3950 Leadership Communication Capstone and COM4110 Business and Professional Communication. These projects reflect my commitment to helping students articulate their strengths, showcase their academic and creative work, and prepare to enter the world of work with confidence.
Amber L.
Major: Broadcasting & Engineering
Minor: Leadership Studies
Stephanie M.
Major: Hospitality Management
Minor: Leadership Studies
Sierra T.
Major: Business Management
Minor: Leadership Studies
Shelly N.
Major: Sportscasting Communication
Minor: Leadership Studies
Stephanie M.
Major: Environmental Law
Minor: Leadership Studies
Noemi G.
Major: Health Sciences
Minor: Leadership Studies
Shelly N.
Major: Communications
Minor: Performing Arts
Ebony P.
Major: Biomedical Sciences
Minor: Leadership Studies
Alyssa R.
Major: Biomedical Sciences
Minor: Leadership Studies