SCOM – Harrison Connect

April 20, 2017woocw No Comments

SCOM Celebrating Open Oceans of Opportunity

A party by students for students and faculty?

Sounds like fun—and, yes, it will be!

Each and every April, JMU’s School of Communication Studies hosts an annual dinner where SCOM students, faculty, family, and friends get together to gaze back and ahead. The event includes great food, numerous awards, plenty of celebration and, of course, a dash of education.

Last year’s SCOM dinner. The theme was “the world is waiting for you.”

Eric Fife, Director of the School of Communications, agrees saying, “it’s a wonderful event, and a great way to celebrate a successful year.”

That’s certainly the case this spring. Planning began in January, and has been a time of high anticipation for the student planners, seniors Karan Deengar (’17) and Ian Francisco (’17).

Deengar, a highly organized and detail-oriented individual, chose to plan this event because he wanted to learn.

“This dinner is one of the biggest events within SCOM and I wanted to be a part of the process to learn all about what makes it such a special event for all those involved,” Deengar says.

This year’s theme, “Open Oceans of Opportunity” reflects the many paths to success within communication studies.

Francisco, the creative brains behind the dinner, chose to take part in the event because he wanted this year’s event to be the best one yet.

“My last year in SCOM, or at JMU in general wouldn’t be enough if I didn’t become involved in a big way” the senior says.

Ian Francisco and Karan Deengar have planned the event and sold tickets.

“This was my way to give back to my major and wrap things up as a student here!”

Both students found the planning process enlightening and educational as they learned the importance of having a good partner.

“The success of any two business partners or colleagues is directly reliant on the synergy between the two people,” said Francisco, “I learned this right away as Karan kept catching things I was missing, and I was doing the same to him.”

This year, the event falls on Tuesday, April 25 and will be held in the Madison Union Ballroom. It’s a special time to unwind, listen to live entertainment and enjoy a lovely meal with faculty and students alike.

Most importantly, the evening will feature various awards. For students, recognition will be given to individuals within their chosen concentration and student organizations in SCOM. The best lecturer award, the best professor award and the distinguished alumni award will be presented as well.

Fife noted his excitement surrounding the event saying “Every aspect of the community is represented, which I think is fantastic. If I could find a way to do so, I’d make it an even larger event.”

Both Francisco and Deengar agree they hope the night will be a time for everyone to “take it all in one last night before finals and entering the real world, I know it will be for me” said Deengar.

Melissa Swan, an SCOM major following plans for the event, is also excited. “It’s sure to be a great time,” she says. “After all, who knows how to throw a party better than JMU students?”

November 13, 2016woocw No Comments

Communicating for the Future

By Anthony Barletta (’17)

There is no lack of controversial issues within the City of Harrisonburg and Rockingham County, and even on our campus. But there is a place to discuss them. In 2011, JMU faculty and students in the School of Communication Studies (SCOM) program, created an outlet to create spaces where these issues could be discussed productively.

For the last five years, SCOM’s Institute for Constructive Advocacy and Dialogue (ICAD) has collaborated with both the campus and the community to ease different groups of people into complex discussions.

Dr. Britt is facilitating a discussion at the ICAD's Recidivism Summit. — Dr. Britt is facilitating a discussion at the ICAD’s Recidivism Summit.

Unraveling and understanding these public issues is no easy task. Issues that challenge these communities range from mental health disabilities to sexual assault to the recidivism rate. Hitting close to home, community members have difficulty discussing these complex issues.

Engaging diverse groups in productive talk is a collaborative effort headed by ICAD’s director, Dr. Lori Britt and associate director, Dr. Rob Alexander.

ICAD brings community members, JMU faculty, and JMU students together in these discussions. According to Dr. Lori Britt, the talk “is not always about finding solutions but is sometimes focused on creating spaces where people can gain others’ perspectives.” As Dr. Britt explains, encompassing different perspectives helps strengthen community relations on campus, in the community and between the two. Read more Communicating for the Future

May 20, 2016woocw No Comments

Welcome Dr. Michael Broderick to SCOM

By Amberly Millis (’16)

Introducing Dr. Michael Broderick, one of the newest faculty members to join the School of Communications Studies. Broderick received a Bachelor of Specialized Studies in ethnobotanical ecology, which focuses on the interaction of humans in the biotic world (e.g. plants and people). Additionally, Broderick has a Master of Arts in an interdisciplinary program in anthropology and history, as well as a Ph. D in communication studies from Ohio University.

Broderick specializes in food, aesthetics and social change. For Broderick’s dissertation, he conducted an experimental ethnography of a small goat farm in rural southeastern Ohio. He examined the ways in which the food was utilized as an agent of social change and asked the following question: what are the ways in which food is used to create community and social change? He traced a phenomenological arc from consumption to the imagination, story and social change. Thus, Broderick states that his area of focus is on critical approaches to food, culture, aesthetics and non-traditional methods of research and reporting (e.g., creative writing, photography and poetry). Broderick is a proud member of the Virginia Sustainable Food Committee, which looks into ways to incorporate more local foods into the “4 VA” (James Madison University, University of Virginia Academy, Virginia Tech University and George Mason University) dining facilities.

Broderick will be teaching a food and communications course in the spring of 2017. Additionally, he would like to continue to teach courses that focus on critical approaches to food and consumption, as well as develop coursework in aesthetic communication and creative analytics/methodologies. When asked what he likes most about working at JMU, Broderick states, “What’s not to like? It is hands down the best place I’ve ever worked. I’m absolutely excited to come to work each day. My colleagues and the department as a whole are incredibly kind and supportive. The students here are excellent as well. No doubt.”

In Broderick’s free time, he likes to read, spend time with his family, take photos, go to concerts, watch movies and explore the outdoors! Broderick offers his students the following advice, “Live the dream. Take risks. Spend time figuring out what you love and what you’d like to spend your time thinking about; passion drives good research. Be selfish with your time, read good books, listen to good music, go out in nature, see some art, and spend time with thoughtful people. It’s all grist for the mill.”

Please give a warm welcome to Dr. Broderick!

May 12, 2016woocw No Comments

Welcome Professor Sarah Taylor to SCOM

By Amberly Millis (’16)

Introducing Professor Sarah Taylor to the School of Communication Studies! Prior to coming to James Madison University, Taylor studied English literature and women’s studies at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Her academic work revolved around gender identity and how people construct/disclose personal narratives. Following that, Taylor attended the University of Northern Iowa for graduate school to continue her studies on how the way in which individuals “story” themselves reveals their identity narratives, specifically sexual orientation and gender identity. As a student, Taylor was heavily involved in intercollegiate forensics (a form of competitive public speech). First as a competitor and then as a coach— Taylor states that this involvement acted as the application of what she had learned in her academic history.

After completing her graduate work, Taylor spent a few years working as a corporate trainer for both an academic software company and digital marketing firm. Within this position, she spent her time working with adult learners and preparing them for their future careers. Taylor states that this helped her further apply what she had learned in communication studies with regards to organizational communication. Following this, Taylor accepted the position as instructor at JMU! Taylor states that she came to JMU for many reasons, most notably due to the wealth of professional development opportunities for her as both a teacher and an academic. She states that she believes most teachers, who find themselves working in higher education, care very deeply about developing and honing their research abilities, as well as refining their pedagogy. Taylor has been thrilled to find both avenues teeming with chances to better herself. In her time at JMU, she hopes to continue to revise and polish her approach to teaching the basic course (SCOM 123) and find more productive ways to meet University requirements while still empowering her students to become engaged, passionate human beings.

Taylor’s research interests have evolved dramatically within the last five years. She continues to have a strong interest in the performance of queer identities in the corporate space, especially following her experience as a corporate trainer. However, her immediate research interests apply to what is most present in her life as of the moment, which involves integrating social justice paradigms and ethical reasoning into the basic communication course. She is currently working with Professor Annelise Ewing, a fellow new faculty member, to explore themes of social justice in the basic course. Both Taylor and Ewing will be co-teaching a summer program for Valley Scholars that will explore some of these themes!

Taylor states that her love for JMU and the SCOM has only continued to grow ever since she first stepped foot on campus. She provided us with one example in particular as to why she believes working here is truly an exceptional experience. During the spring semester, Taylor was wrought with challenges that she had not anticipated. A family emergency led her 1000 miles away from JMU and back to Wisconsin. During that time, she received no backlash from the department but an outpouring of sincere thoughts, prayers and offerings of support. In reflection, Taylor states, “I cannot say how much that has meant to me as a new faculty member, and I am entirely grateful for the community in this department that elicited that response.”

When Taylor is out of the classroom, she enjoys spending her free time with her fiancé. Recently, she has been very busy planning their upcoming wedding! She states that she looks forward to all of their adventures ahead, whether that be going to concerts, baking or exploring! Taylor offers her students the following pieces of advice, “Find out what you care about and pursue that RECKLESSLY. I loved my work as a corporate trainer, but I recognized that it was not what I was supposed to be doing forever. So, I shifted gears, pulled up my roots, moved 1000 miles away and began the lifelong work of becoming a teacher. Give yourself permission to decide, change directions, flounder and fly.”

Please give Professor Taylor a warm welcome!

April 25, 2016woocw No Comments

Welcome Professor Annelise Ewing to SCOM

By Catherine Montgomery (’18)

SCOM has recently welcomed six new faculty members into the school. One of these professors is Ms. Annelise Ewing. Prior to coming to JMU, Ewing attended Creighton University in Omaha, Nebraska for her undergraduate degree. Following that, she received her Master’s degree from Illinois State University in Normal, Illinois, where she taught as well. Ewing has been quick to make Harrisonburg her home and JMU her second family.

So what brought Ewing to James Madison University? Well, she was fresh out of Illinois State University having received her masters and she was looking for a program. She then came across JMU and found it quite appealing. Ewing came to visit and fell in love with the department, as well as the gorgeous town. Ewing happily accepted a position once it was offered. Since being at JMU, she has mostly taught the course SCOM 123, while dabbling in interpersonal communication courses as well.

However, Ewing has not just been teaching though. She has also been quick to get involved in the JMU community. One way she’s gotten involved is by working with the university‘s speech team by doing voluntary coaching. This past spring break, she also went on an Alternative Break to Lakeland Florida through JMU as the faculty member. On the Alternative Break she worked with a team of students on the East Coast Migrant Head Start Program for one week.

Moving to a new place can be tough, but it can also be exciting. When asked what was her favorite part about JMU, Ewing stated, “I’ve loved the sense of community that is here in both the department, university and Harrisonburg in general.” This may be something we hear a lot and perhaps don’t understand after being at JMU for so long but she went on to say, “It’s different than anywhere I’ve ever been, and generally very nice.” She takes note of how people make a point to always say “thank you” and “please, as well as open doors for others.

While here, Ewing has become a popular teacher among students, which we may be able to partly attribute to her teaching rule of thumb, “Always make it apply back to what you’re going to use in your life beyond the JMU bubble.” In addition, she maintains an open door policy saying, “My door is always open if people want to come visit, tell me about new places to go in Harrisonburg.” So stop by Roop Hall and show Ewing the JMU hospitality we’re known for and have a chat.

Please give a warm welcome to Professor Annelise Ewing!

April 20, 2016woocw No Comments

32 Students and Faculty Represent SCOM at ECA Conference

By Amberly Millis (’16)

March 31 to April 3, students and faculty members in the School of Communication Studies at James Madison University presented at the 107^th Eastern Communication Association Convention at the Hyatt Regency in Inner Harbor Baltimore, Maryland. These Students and faculty members presented their scholarly research in the convention’s informational and/or competitive panels.

JMU undergraduate student participants included:

Amy D’Amato, Lauren Antilety, Nicole Banville, Alexandra Foley, Katie Haskins, Andrew Haveles, Haley Hoff, Gina Jeliff, Yoon Ko, Kaitlyn Lema, Laura Mack, Kathryn McAnally, Amberly Millis, Amanda Pennypacker, Ashley Reynolds, Emma Talkington, Haley Winter, and Lindsay Wright.

Graduate student participants included:

Erin Casey, Claire Habel, Austin Woodruff, and Leanna Smithberger.

Faculty member participants included:

Dr. Carlos Aleman, Dr. Timothy Ball, Dr. Lori Britt, Dr. Heather Carmack, Dr. Eric Fife, Dr. Lindsey Harvell, Dr. Kathryn Hobson, Dr. Tatjana Hocke, Dr. C. Leigh Nelson, and Ms. Christina Saindon.

These participants joined with experts and scholars from all over the country to present their research on a variety of communication studies subjects, including crisis, interpersonal, advocacy, leadership, health, organizational, media, rhetorical, and many more. This year’s selection was very competitive, so please congratulate your fellow Dukes for their hard work and accomplishments!

To learn how you can apply to partake in next year’s ECA Conference, go to www.ecasite.org for more information.

March 19, 2015woocw No Comments

Lambda Pi Eta

Lambda Pi Eta (LPH) is the official communication studies honor society of the National Communication Association (NCA). JMU’s chapter, Gamma Beta, was founded in 1994 and is part of the almost 300 chapters worldwide. LPH’s purpose is, “to educate and honor students in the field of communication, while giving them a forum within which they can voice opinions and be active in promoting understanding of the field through service on campus and in the community.”

In a recent interview with the chapter’s advisor, Professor April Roth, they recently inducted 20 new
members, which is roughly 30% more than last year.

Roth also mentioned that an advantage to being a part of LPH is being able to attend their meetings. LPH consistently has great speakers (such as Mark Anderson from C.A.P and Dr. Lori Britt) who present on building and enhancing resumes, how to utilize social media, and other great workshops. Members and those interested can also check out their bulletin board, located on the first floor of Harrison, for updates and upcoming events.

Furthermore, members are encouraged to join LPH’s executive team, which is voted on by those in the chapter.

“My favorite part of being in Lambda Pi Eta has been getting to hear all the great speakers we have had at each meeting,” stated Alyssa Wolf (’16), current vice president. “We have had all types of talks, from resume workshops to a speech on ‘The Most Important Lesson I Learned From My Communication Education.’ I always enjoy hearing what the speakers have to say and taking their great advice.”

Those interested in LPH are encouraged to attend their next meeting, which is on March 27 at 7 PM.

February 7, 2015woocw No Comments

SCOM Requests Distinguished Alumni Award Nominations

It’s that time of year again, when the School of Communication Studies Community Committee has the opportunity to select another accomplished alumnus to receive the Distinguished Alumni Award. The committee is accepting nominations and self-nominations for this award until February 16, 2015.

“I would encourage alumni to consider applying—if anything, it’s a great exercise in reviewing your goals and general career direction,” said Meghan Ely, 2003 SCOM graduate and last year’s Distinguished Alumni Award winner, when asked why alumni should self-nominate, “It never hurts to be a bit introspective from time to time. Awards help professionals stand out when faced with a saturated market and it’s nice to have an added competitive edge.”

The Distinguished Alumni Award is presented every spring to an alumnus who makes exceptional contributions to their discipline or profession and demonstrates outstanding service to the School of Communication Studies, James Madison University, their community, region or nation. The winner of the award will receive up to $1,000 in travel and accommodations to attend the SCOM banquet on April 8, 2015, where they will be recognized for their dedication and growth in the communications field.

December 16, 2014woocw No Comments

No More GCOM?! The “G” Indicators will be removed from Gen Ed Courses by Fall 2015.

“Gen Ed’s are supposed to be easy.” Says who? JMU students immediately associate ‘general’ with ‘easy’. This commonly held mindset is actually a big misconception. Many of these courses are actually very challenging. So why does the dreaded “G” in front of all of these courses change the way students view the difficulty of a course?

This is one of the negative connotations the G has acquired over the years that has come to many faculty’s attention. The G was originally intended to be a positive symbol and make JMU’s General Education program distinctive, when it was created in the late 1990s. Although the General Education program continues to do this, it has acquired negative connotations that have led to major reconsiderations. During JMU’s 2011-2012 program review, faculty proposed the idea of removing the G from the course prefix in General Education classes, according to the General Education page on the JMU website. Last year it was confirmed by various members of the JMU community that this was a good idea.

Last year, the JMU General Education program made a concerted effort to reach as many people as possible including instructors who teach General Education courses to listen their opinion about this issue.

“They tried hard to explain why the program was contemplating the removal of the G,” said Dr. Tim Ball, assistant professor and SCOM basic course director, “They wanted to make sure we thought it was a change that needed to happen.” Read more No More GCOM?! The “G” Indicators will be removed from Gen Ed Courses by Fall 2015.

December 2, 2014woocw No Comments

The Way To A Successful Career: Internships

On every single holiday break, there’s that one dreaded question that all college students just hate to hear, making their skin crawl and the hair stand up on their arms… “What do you want to do with your degree?” It’s such a loaded question. You’re a junior in college, trying to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Communication Studies.