News and Announcements

The Department of Communication and the College of Humanities are proud to announce the upcoming release of Davao Smiles, a student-made documentary chronicling a humanitarian dental project in the Philippines spearheaded by Emeritus Professor Paul S. Rose.

As climate change continues to accelerate, institutions across sectors are being called to not only reduce emissions but also respond to the unequal burdens that climate change places on different communities. In higher education, universities are developing climate action plans (CAPs) to guide both mitigation and adaptation efforts.

This summer, the Department of Communication proudly celebrates the recognition of two of its own, Emmy Darling and George Rojas, who were honored with Stellar Staff Awards by the College of Humanities.

Scientists are crucial voices in the public debate about wicked problems—societal-scale, high-stakes issues with no clear solutions, like pandemics and artificial intelligence. In the past, experts reached the masses through journalists at traditional news outlets. Today, science discourse happens online, where science content competes for attention with posts from influencers, advocacy groups, conspiracy theorists and other unverified sources.

The Department of Communication at the University of Utah is proud to announce the promotion of five outstanding faculty members whose contributions have strengthened our academic community and expanded the reach of communication research and teaching across disciplines and into the broader public.

We are thrilled to announce that three exceptional graduate students have been awarded prestigious University Fellowships that recognize their academic excellence, impactful research, and dedication to undergraduate education.

The John R. Park Debate Society has been working with the Weschool Speech & Debate Association (WSDA) Southwest in China since November to build strong international debate ties with several Chinese high schools. The team provided debate workshops to help teach middle and high school students research and writing skills, debate techniques and practices, and how to analyze topics for national and international competitions.

This significant study sheds light on what truly matters to individuals living with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), emphasizing the need to align future research with the lived experiences and concerns of patients and their caregivers.

At a time when public conversations about sexual health were severely limited by obscenity laws, medical gatekeeping, and cultural taboos, mainstream newspapers became one of the only accessible sources of information about the pill. This study analyzed 292 articles published between 1951 and 1965 to uncover how these pieces shaped early public understanding.

We’re proud to announce that Chair Avery Holton and graduate student Aly Hill, in collaboration with Mariah Wellman, Assistant Professor at Michigan State University, have authored a chapter in the highly anticipated Routledge Handbook of Lifestyle Journalism, set for release on June 10.

The Department of Communication is proud to share that Distinguished Professor Kent Ono was recently featured in KUTV’s Belonging in Utah series.

The Department of Communication is proud to spotlight a recent collaboration between two of our esteemed faculty members, Dr. Andy King and Dr. Ben Lyons, who co-authored an article for Huntsman Cancer Institute titled "Ask an Expert: Cancer Misinformation and Aging Populations."

The Department of Communication mourns the passing of esteemed alumnus Tom Wharton, who died on May 8, 2025, at the age of 74. A distinguished journalist, devoted mentor, and generous benefactor, Tom's contributions have left an indelible mark on our community and the field of journalism.

After more than three decades of shaping aspiring journalists and video producers, Adjunct Professor Craig Wirth is retiring this spring.

One faculty member in the College of Humanities has been appointed with the University of Utah’s prestigious designation of Distinguished Professor.

Events include an exclusive student Q&A and an evening lecture with audience Q&A and reception.

Led by Adjunct Associate Professor Kevin Bischoff, this hands-on program provides students with real-world experience working with actual business clients. Through teamwork and professional projects, students gain invaluable industry skills, preparing them for careers in communication, advertising, and public relations.

Dr. Curtis Newbold, Clinical Associate Professor and Faculty Advisor for PRSSA, shares his insights on how the Public Relations Student Society of America offers students valuable opportunities for career development, networking with industry professionals, and gaining hands-on experience.

Discover the John R. Park Debate Society, a team that goes beyond debate competitions, offering students opportunities for growth, outreach, and skill development. Learn about their partnerships, public speaking events, and commitment to excellence in communication.

Dr. Ben Lyons, a researcher at the University of Utah, challenges assumptions about digital literacy and misinformation among older adults. His groundbreaking work explores the role of partisanship and emotional engagement in misinformation sharing, offering new insights into how older populations engage with news and misinformation.