Focus: Health and Risk Communication

The ability to effectively and efficiently communicate about health and risk-related issues is becoming increasingly important. Hospitals, government agencies, health departments, news media organizations and public relations and other communication practitioners need to know how best to reach diverse audiences with timely and relevant messages, and the new Grady Center for Health and Risk Communication (CHRC) is an important interdisciplinary center of expertise.

Reber

About: He teaches public relations, management, and writing. Research foci are public relations and health and crisis communication.

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Education

Ph.D., Journalism, University of Missouri
M.S., Journalism, University of Kansas
B.A., Speech and Drama, Bethel College

Research Interests and Activities

Dr. Reber’s research focuses on public relations theory, practice and pedagogy. He has published his research in the Journal of Public Relations Research, Journalism and Mass Communication Quarterly, Journal of Communication Management, and Newspaper Research Journal among others. In addition, Dr. Reber has presented his research at numerous academic conferences.

Ethical challenges in an evolving digital communication era: Coping resources and ethical trainings in corporate communications Juan Meng, Solyee Kim & Bryan H. Reber

Abstract: This study investigated the ethical challenges facing public relations professionals in today’s digital communication environment. Our research found nearly 60% of surveyed professionals reported that they faced ethical challenges […]

Organizational Purpose, Culture, Crisis Leadership, and Social Media Bryan H. Reber

Abstract: This chapter explores the importance of organizational purpose, culture, and leadership in weathering a social media crisis and the impact of stakeholders’ changing expectations on organizational responses. Organizations are […]

Current Issues of Social Media and Crisis Communication Bryan H. Reber

Abstract: The standard advice in crisis communication is to respond quickly, but only with what is absolutely known to be fact. Social media have increased the potential for quick response, […]

Ethical challenges in an evolving digital communication era: Coping resources and ethical trainings in corporate communications Bryan H. Reber, Solyee Kim & Juan Meng

Abstract: This study is motivated to investigate the ethical challenges facing public relations professionals in today’s digital communication environment. Our research found nearly 60% of surveyed professionals reported that they faced […]

Leveraging the cybersecurity function to build influence and strategy: An empirical study of public relations professionals’ cybersecurity acumen Michael Cacciatore, Juan Meng & Bryan H. Reber

Abstract: This study investigated PR professionals’ attention to and perceptions of cybersecurity, and their involvement in handling cybersecurity incidents. Preliminary findings include that practitioners in the US and Canada did […]

Threat Assessments and Organization Resources for DEI and Ethics: Practitioner Insights on Sticky Crises Taylor Voges, Solyee Kim, JeongHyun (Janice) Lee, Sara Ervin, Yan Jin & Bryan H. Reber

Abstract: Organizations need to respond to sticky crises with speed and timeliness; this speed depends onhow communication practitioners assess threats and their organizations’ resources for the threats. Based on theoretical […]

What Drives a Tough Call: Determining the Importance of Contingency Factors and Individual Characteristics in Communication Executives’ Stance Decision-Making through a Conjoint Analysis Taylor Voges, Yan Jin & Bryan H. Reber

Abstract: To further the understanding of how communication executives make tough calls in times of organizational-public conflict, we use a conjoint analysis to identify key drivers for organizational stance decision-making. […]

Ethical challenges in an evolving digital communication era: Coping resources and ethics trainings Juan Meng, Bryan H. Reber & Taeyeon Kim

Abstract: This study investigates the ethical challenges facing public relations professionals in today’s digital communication environment. Specifically, we focused our research on the new ethical challenges in digital practice, the […]

Breaking the sound of silence: Explication in the use of strategic silence in crisis communication Sung In Choi, Yan Jin, Youngji Seo & Bryan H. Reber

Abstract: Crises present organizations with the “rhetorical exigency” to enact control (Heath, 2004, p.167). Silence is not an option. This study, as the first empirical examination of Le et al. (2019)’s seminal study […]

Leading transitions in a traumatically changing working environment: Communication professionals adapt to COVID-19 impacts. Tong Xie, Bryan H. Reber, Juan Meng & JeongHyun (Janice) Lee

Abstract: The paper presents findings from an international survey of communication professionals on change leadership in communication during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the strong impact brought by the pandemic, communication […]

Ethical challenges in an evolving digital communication era: Coping resources and ethics trainings. Juan Meng, Solyee Kim & Bryan H. Reber

Abstract: This study is motivated to investigate the ethical challenges facing public relations professionals in today’s digital communication environment. Specifically, we focused our research on the new ethical challenges in […]

Exploring the 2020-2021 North American Communication Monitor Bryan H. Reber and Juan Meng

Meng, J., Reber, B. H., Gower, K., Zerfass, A. (June 9, 2021). Exploring the 2020-2021 North American Communication Monitor. Facebook Live Webinar, invited and hosted by the Plank Center for […]

Unintended Effects of Risk Communication: Impacts of Message Fatigue, Risk Tolerance, and Trust in Public Health Information on Psychological Reactance Youngji Seo, Bryan H. Reber & Yan Jin

Abstract: How individuals experience unintended effects of risk messages is an understudied area. Focusing on three types of unintended effects (i.e., message fatigue, risk tolerance, and psychological reactance) associated with […]

The impact of COVID-19 pandemic, ethical challenges, gender issues, cyber security, and competence gaps in strategic communication. Juan Meng and Bryan H. Reber

North American Communication Monitor 2020-2021. The impact of COVID-19 pandemic, ethical challenges, gender issues, cyber security, and competence gaps in strategic communication.

Leading transitions in a traumatically changing working environment: Communication professionals adapt to COVID-19 impacts Juan Meng, Bryan H. Reber, Tong Xie & JeongHyun (Janice) Lee

Strategic Decision-Making for Public Relations: Determining the Importance of Contingency Theory Factors Through a Conjoint Analysis Yan Jin and Bryan H. Reber

Abstract: This study uses a novel approach, the conjoint analysis, as a way to investigate the interactions between three factor groupings of the contingency theory variables that are relevant for […]

Assessing an Organizational Crisis at the Construal Level: How Psychological Distance Impacts Publics’ Crisis Responses Yan Jin and Bryan H. Reber

Abstract: To expand the existing scholarly literature on the nature of crisis, this study elaborates on the notion of crisis distance by 1) investigating its influence on publics’ crisis responses […]

Best Practices for Corporate Communication Research Collaboration between University Research Groups and Industry Businesses and Organizations: A Structure and Function Analysis Yan Jin and Bryan H. Reber

Abstract: The purpose of this study is to identify the best practices for corporate communication research collaboration between a university research group (URG) and outside businesses or organizations that systematically […]

Research Report: Juan Meng and Bryan H. Reber

Meng, J., Berger, B. K., Heyman, W., & Reber, B. H. (2019). Public relations leaders earn a “C+” in The Plank Center’s Report Card 2019. Gender and hierarchy gaps widen, […]

Book Published: North American Communication Monitor 2018-2019. Tracking trends in fake news, issues management, leadership performance, work stress, social media skills, job satisfaction and work environment. Juan Meng, Bryan H. Reber, Tong Xie & Solyee Kim

Meng, J., Reber, B. H., Berger, B. K., Gower, K. K., & Zerfass, A. (2019). North American Communication Monitor 2018-2019. Tracking trends in fake news, issues management, leadership performance, work […]

The State of Crisis Communication Research and Education Through the Lens of Crisis Scholars: An International Delphi Study Bryan H. Reber and Yan Jin

Abstract: This Delphi study explores the status of crisis communication research and education qualitatively through the lens of 22 internationally recognized crisis communication scholars, systematically recruited and retained to serve […]

Book Contract: Advancing Crisis Communication Effectiveness: Integrating Public Relations Scholarship with Practice Yan Jin, Glen Nowak & Bryan H. Reber

Abstract:: Advancing Crisis Communication Effectiveness shows how crisis communication plans and efforts for complex and challenging issues benefit when academic perspectives are connected with practitioner experiences. This book brings crisis […]

How Financial Crisis History Informs Ethical Corporate Communication: Insights from Corporate Communication Leaders Camila Espina, Yan Jin & Bryan H. Reber

Abstract: This study explored how financial crisis history can inform corporate crisis communication practice across industries and over time. Thirty-eight interviews with chief communications officers (CCOs) and their counselors were […]

How Financial Crisis History Informs Ethical Corporate Communication: Insights from Corporate Communication Leaders Camila Espina, Yan Jin & Bryan H. Reber

Teaching Specialties

His primary teaching interests are public relations administration, public relations communication, and public relations campaigns. He has also taught persuasion, campaign research and public opinion management on the graduate level.

Experience

Prior to joining the Grady College, Dr. Reber worked in public relations at Bethel College, Kansas. He has conducted research and consulted for the University of Alabama, Alabama Entrepreneurial Research Network, Sierra Club, Ketchum, Missouri Public Service Commission, and others. He taught at the University of Alabama immediately prior to joining the Grady faculty.

Awards and Fellowships

He received the Ketchum/Institute for Public Relations, Scientific Methods And Research Techniques (SMART) Grant/Internship in 1999. He has received top paper awards at the International Communication Association (2001) and Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (2003, 2000).

Phua

About: Dr. Phua’s research examines the impact of new and emerging communication technologies, including social media, on advertising and branding, social marketing campaigns for public health issues like obesity and smoking cessation, and sports marketing. His teaching specialties include digital and social communication strategies, advertising and communication management, and digital advertising at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

View Curriculum Vitae

Education

Ph.D., Communication, University of Southern California
M.A., Communication Management, University of Southern California
B.A., Cinema-Television Critical Studies, University of Southern California

Research Interests and Activities

Dr. Phua’s research examines the impact of new and emerging communication technologies, including social media, on advertising and branding, social marketing campaigns for public health issues like obesity and smoking cessation, and sports marketing. His research has been published in top journals in the field, including Journal of Communication, Journal of Advertising, Psychology of Addictive Behaviors, Journal of Health Psychology, Journal of Smoking Cessation, Asian Journal of Communication, International Journal of Sport Communication, Journal of Sports Media, and Social Influence. His research has also received coverage in publications including Newsweek, Men’s Health, Huffington Post, Men’s Fitness, and WebMD magazine, as well as in news outlets like ABC News, Yahoo! News, and NPR Marketplace Tech.

Top Three Paper Award Joe Phua

Top Three Paper Award in the Advertising Division Open Research Competition: Youngjee Ko (Grady PhD Student) and Joe Phua. “Effects of Eco-Labels and Perceived Influencer Expertise on Perceived Healthfulness, Perceived […]

AAA Research Fellowship Award Alexander Pfeuffer and Joe Phua

Alex Pfeuffer, assistant professor of advertising, and Joe Phua, associate professor of advertising, were awarded a AAA Research Fellowship Award for a 3-year research project studying vlogs and trust cues […]

International Journal of Advertising Joe Phua

Joe Phua has been named an Associate Editor of International Journal of Advertising effective March 2022.

How Disclosure Source and Content-Publication Fit Impact Consumers’ Recognition and Evaluation of Native E-Cigarette Public Service Announcements Nathaniel J. Evans and Joe Phua

Abstract: Given the increasing amount of public and government related attention devoted to issues surrounding e-cigarette use, the current study examined how disclosure source and content-publication fit in an ENDS […]

Can Warning labels mitigate Effects of Advertising Message Claims in Celebrity-Endorsed Instagram-Based Electronic Cigarette Advertisements? Influence on Social Media Users’ E-Cigarette Attitudes and Behavioral Intentions Joe Phua

Abstract: Electronic cigarette brands are increasingly using social media to advertise their products. This study examined effects of advertising message claim type (reduced risk [“Healthier than regular cigarettes”], cessation [“Quit […]

Reaching the Vaccine-Averse: The Role of Cue-based Trust in COVID-19 Vaccination Social Media Vlogs Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy Joe Phua and Alexander Pfeuffer

A multi-method study (Study 1: Focus groups; Study 2: Survey; Study 3: Online experiment) will examine user-generated COVID-19 vaccine information in social media-based vlogs to (1) identify eWOM content attributes […]

Journal of Interactive Advertising Joe Phua

Joe Phua served as guest editor (with Kevin Byon of Indiana University, Bloomington) for “Journal of Interactive Advertising,” Special Issue in “Digital and Interactive Marketing Communications in Sports”, Vol. 20, […]

Do Young Adults Attend to Health Warnings in the First IQOS Advertisement in the U.S.? An Eye-Tracking Approach Glen Nowak and Joe Phua

Abstract: In October 2019, a heated tobacco product (HTP) IQOS debuted in the United States. This study examined young adults’ attention and cognitions in response to an IQOS ad that […]

Stranger Danger? Cue-based Trust in Online Consumer Product Review Videos Joe Phua and Alexander Pfeuffer

Abstract: Trust is a significant factor in electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) effects. Consumers often need to form judgments about others using heuristic cues when they cannot rely on previous cumulative experiences with […]

Trusting on a Whim? A Multi-method Inquiry of Cue-based Trust in Online Consumer Product Reviews Alexander Pfeuffer, Joe Phua & Marilyn Primovic

Abstract: Online, consumers often cannot develop trust through cumulative experiences with another party but must instead rely on heuristic cues for their trust formation. Drawing on the theoretical construct of […]

What Drives Loyal Fans of Brand Pages to take Action? The Effects of Self-Expansion and Flow on Loyal Page Fans’ Sharing and Creation Activities Joe Phua

Abstract: Consumer-driven sharing and creation activities are valuable engagement activities as they help spread awareness and interaction for brands on social media. Loyal fans of brand pages are an important […]

Do Young Adults Attend to Health Warnings in the First IQOS Advertisement in the U.S.? An Eye-Tracking Approach Joe Phua and Glen Nowak

Abstract: Introduction: In October 2019, a heated tobacco product (HTP) IQOS debuted in the United States. This study examined young adults’ attention and cognitions in response to an IQOS ad […]

Intergroup Contact, COVID-19 News Consumption, and the Moderating Role of Digital Media Trust on Prejudice toward Asians in the U.S.: A Cross-Sectional Study Joe Phua

Abstract: Background: The perceived threat of a contagious virus may lead people to be distrustful of immigrants and out-groups. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, the salient politicized discourses of blaming Chinese […]

Pro-Veganism on Instagram: Effects of User-Generated Content (UGC) Types and Content Generator Types in Instagram-Based Health Marketing Communication about Veganism Joe Phua

Abstract: Purpose: Through two experiments, this study assessed source and message effects of Instagram-based pro-veganism messages. Design/methodology/approach: Experiment 1 (N = 294) examined effects of organization (brand vs nonprofit) and […]

Do Young Adults Attend to Health Warnings in the First IQOS Advertisement in the U.S.? An Eye-Tracking Approach Glen Nowak and Joe Phua

Abstract: Introduction: In October 2019, a heated tobacco product (HTP) IQOS debuted in the United States. This study examined young adults’ attention and cognitions in response to an IQOS ad […]

What makes a Loyal Fan a Brand Advocate on Social Media? Capitalizing on Brand Page Loyalty to build Self-Expansion Benefits for Fans. Joe Phua

Abstract: Fans of brand pages are valuable as they help spread positive word-of-mouth on social media, and drive brand recommendations to other social media users. Companies, such as Nike and […]

Stranger Danger? Cue-based Trust in Online Consumer Product Review Videos. Alexander Pfeuffer and Joe Phua

Abstract: Trust is a significant factor in electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) effects. Online, consumers often need to form judgments about others using heuristic cues when they cannot rely on previous cumulative […]

Do Young Adults Attend to Health Warnings in the First IQOS Advertisement in the U.S.? An Eye-Tracking Approach. Glen Nowak and Joe Phua

Abstract: Introduction: In October 2019, a heated tobacco product (HTP) IQOS debuted in the United States. This study examined young adults’ attention and cognitions in response to an IQOS ad […]

The Roles of Celebrity Endorsers’ and Consumers’ Vegan Identity in Marketing Communication about Veganism. Jihoon (Jay) Kim and Joe Phua

Abstract: Celebrities endorsing veganism may exert social influence on consumers’ attitude toward veganism and behavioral intention to become vegan. A between-subjects online experiment (N=303) examined the effects of consumers’ eating […]

Intergroup Contact, COVID-19 News Consumption, and the Moderating Role of Digital Media Trust on Prejudice toward Asians in the U.S.: A Cross-Sectional Study Joe Phua

Abstract: Background: The perceived threat of a highly contagious virus may lead people to be distrustful of immigrants and outgroups. Since the COVID-19 outbreak, the salient politicized discourses of blaming […]

Understanding How Consumers Perceive Brand Personality through Sports Sponsorship Joe Phua

Abstract: Sports sponsorship has been considered a key branding strategy for various marketing objectives, but little research investigated how consumers perceived sponsor brands through sports competitions. This study aimed to […]

Effects of Brand Name versus Empowerment Advertising Campaign Hashtags in Branded Instagram Posts of Luxury versus Mass-market Brands Taeyeon Kim and Joe Phua

Abstract: Through two studies, this research examined consumer responses to empowerment hashtags in social media–based fashion advertising. The findings of Study 1 indicated that consumers showed more favorable attitudes toward […]

Connecting Sponsor Brands through Sports Competitions: An Identity Approach to Brand Trust and Brand Loyalty Joe Phua

Pan, Polin, & Joe Phua (Forthcoming). Connecting Sponsor Brands through Sports Competitions: An Identity Approach to Brand Trust and Brand Loyalty. Accepted for publication in Sport, Business, Management: An International […]

Investigating the Impact of Immersive Advertising on Attitude toward the Brand: The Mediating Roles of Perceived Novelty, Perceived Interactivity, and Attitude toward the Advertisement Nah Ray Han, Jihoon (Jay) Kim, Taeyeon Kim & Joe Phua (AEJMC) 2020 Annual Conference (Virtual), August 6-9, 2020.

Jihoon (Jay) Kim (Grady Ph.D student), Joe Phua, Nah Ray Han (Grady Ph.D student), and Taeyeon Kim (Grady Ph.D student), “Investigating the Impact of Immersive Advertising on Attitude toward the […]

Comparing Expectancy Violations Committed by Influencer Advertising Sources on Social Media Marilyn Primovic and Joe Phua To be presented virtually at the AEJMC 103rd Annual Conference in August, 2020.

Marilyn Primovic and Dr. Joe Phua, Comparing Expectancy Violations Committed by Influencer Advertising Sources on Social Media. To be presented virtually at the AEJMC 103rd Annual Conference in August, 2020. […]

Marketing a health brand on Facebook: Effects of reaction icons and user comments on brand attitude, trust, purchase intention, and eWOM intention Joe Phua

Abstract: This study examined effects of Facebook reaction icons and user comments on brand attitude, trust, information seeking, purchase intention, and eWOM intention towards a health brand, as well as […]

Effects of Brand Name versus Empowerment Advertising Campaign Hashtags in Branded Instagram Posts of Luxury versus Mass-market Brands Taeyeon Kim and Joe Phua

Abstract: Through 2 studies, this research examined consumer responses to empowerment hashtags in social media-based fashion advertising. The findings of Study 1 indicated that consumers showed more favorable attitudes towards […]

Pro-Veganism on Instagram: Effects of User-Generated Content (UGC) Types and Content Generator Types in Instagram-Based Health Marketing Communication about Veganism Jihoon (Jay) Kim and Joe Phua

Abstract: Through two experiments, this study assessed source and message effects of Instagram-based pro-veganism messages. Experiment 1 (N = 294) examined effects of organization (brand versus non-profit) and message types […]

Pro-Veganism on Instagram: Effects of User-Generated Content and Message Endorser Types in Instagram-Based Pro-Veganism Posts Joe Phua and Jihoon (Jay) Kim

Paper accepted for presentation at the International Communication Association Annual Conference, Gold Coast, Australia, May 2020. Abstract: Through two experiments, this study assessed source and message effects of Instagram-based pro-veganism […]

Encouraging Energy Saving through Facebook: Effect of Message Concreteness and Message Sender Distance on Consumer Attitudes and Behavioral Intentions. Nah Ray Han, Joe Phua & Jihoon (Jay) Kim

Accepted for presentation at the 2020 American Academy of Advertising (AAA) Annual Conference, March 2020, San Diego, CA. Abstract: This study examined effects of match versus mismatch of message concreteness […]

Do Human Values matter for Promoting Brands on Social Media?: How Social Media Users’ Values influence their Engagement with Sharing, Content Creation and Reviews. Joe Phua

Abstract: This study posits that human values can be used to identify and segment audiences for social media‐based valuable brand activities. Three online surveys were conducted with Facebook, Twitter, and […]

Do human values matter for promoting brands on social media? How social media users’ values influence valuable brand-related activities such as sharing, content creation, and reviews. Joe Phua

Abstract: Companies consider social media‐based consumer engagement behaviors such as sharing, content creation, and reviews for brands as more valuable than “liking” or consuming brand content. Studies show that branded […]

Participation in Electronic Cigarette-Related Social Media Communities: Effects on Attitudes towards Quitting, Self-efficacy, and Intention to Quit. Joe Phua

Abstract: This study examined the effects of joining and actively participating in e-cigarette-related social media communities (SMCs), along with e-cigarette-related subjective norms, and social identification with other e-cigarette users, on […]

Do Human Values matter for Promoting Brands on Social Media?: How Social Media Users’ Values influence their Engagement with Sharing, Content Creation and Reviews Joe Phua

Abstract: Social media-based consumer engagement behaviors, such as sharing, content creation and reviews for brands as more valuable than “liking” or consuming brand content. As consumers trust consumer-driven recommendations more […]

Interaction Effects of Source Type and Message Valence in Instagram-Based Advertising Messages About Veganism Joe Phua and Jihoon (Jay) Kim

Abstract: A between-subjects 2 (source type: celebrity versus non-celebrity) x 2 (message valence: positive versus negative) factorial experiment (N = 288) examined the effects of source type and message valence […]

E-Cigarette Marketing on Social Networking Sites: Effects on Attitudes, Behavioral Control, Intention to Quit and Self-Efficacy Joe Phua

Abstract: This study examined exposure to three types of e-cigarette marketing—sponsored advertisements, brand pages, and user-created groups—on social networking sites and their influence on health-related outcomes. Results (N = 1,016) […]

The Roles of Celebrity Endorsers’ and Consumers’ Vegan Identity in Marketing Communication about Veganism. Joe Phua and Jihoon (Jay) Kim

Content Analysis of JUUL Electronic Cigarette Posts and Comments on Instagram. Joe Phua and Bryan Trude Accepted to ICA 2019 in Washington, D.C.

Abstract: With an estimated 10.8 million adult users, particularly amongst 18 to 24-year olds, e-cigarette use is an increasingly serious health issue within the United States. These products are often […]

“#YSL, is this enough?” Effects of Brand Name versus Empowerment Advertising Campaign Hashtags in Instagram Posts of Luxury versus Mass-market Cosmetic Brands Taeyeon Kim and Joe Phua Accepted for presentation at the 2019 American Academy of Advertising (AAA) Annual Conference, March 2019, Dallas, TX.

Abstract: This study examined effects of hashtag type (brand name versus empowering campaign hashtag) on information value and attitude towards hashtags. Results indicated that consumers showed more favorable attitudes towards […]

Electronic Cigarette Advertising on Instagram: Influence of Advertising Message Claims and Health Warning Labels on Consumers’ Attitudes and Behavioral Intentions towards Electronic Cigarettes Joe Phua and Dong Jae (Jay) Lim Accepted for presentation at the 2019 American Academy of Advertising (AAA) Annual Conference, March 2019, Dallas, TX.

Abstract: Through a 2×3 between-subjects experiment, this study examined effects of health warning labels (presence or absence) and advertising message claims (“Quit smoking using e-cigarettes,” “Healthier than regular cigarettes” or […]

Starring in Your Own Snapchat Advertisement: Influence of Self-Brand Congruity, Self-Referencing and Perceived Humor on Brand Attitude and Purchase Intention of Advertised Brands Joe Phua and Jihoon (Jay) Kim

Abstract: Snapchat geofilter advertisements use augmented reality (AR) technology to place consumers in photographs embellished with branded content. This study examined the joint influence of self-brand congruity, self-referencing and perceived […]

Celebrity-Endorsed E-cigarette Brand Instagram Advertisements: Effects on Young Adults’ Attitudes towards E-cigarettes and Smoking Intentions Joe Phua

Abstract: Celebrities endorsing e-cigarette brands on social media may exert a strong influence on e-cigarette uptake. Using a between-subject experiment, this study examines the effects of endorser type (celebrities, non-celebrities […]

Sport Team-Endorsed Brands on Facebook: Effects of Game Outcome (Win/Loss), Location (Home/Away) and Team Identification on Fans’ Brand Evaluations Joe Phua

Abstract: Purpose – Applying social identity theory, the social identity-brand equity model and excitation-transfer theory, the purpose of this paper is to examine effects of game outcome (win/loss) and location […]

Marketing a health brand on Facebook: Effects of reaction icons and user comments on brand attitude, trust, purchase intention, and eWOM intention Joe Phua

Teaching Specialties

Dr. Phua’s teaching specialties include digital and social communication strategies, advertising and communication management, and digital advertising at both the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Experience

Dr. Phua has worked in corporate communications at MTV networks, account management at Dailey and Associates Advertising, and in film production at Paramount Pictures in Hollywood, California, before attending the Annenberg School for Communication & Journalism at the University of Southern California, where he earned his Ph.D. in 2011.

Awards and Fellowships

Dissertation of the Year Award 2012, NCA Health Communication Division, National Communication Association (NCA) Conference, Orlando, Florida, November 2012
Dissertation of the Year Award 2012, ICA Health Communication Division, International Communication Association (ICA) Conference, Phoenix, Arizona, May 2012
CTL Lilly Teaching Fellows 2012-2014, University of Georgia, Athens, GA
International Dissertation Research Award 2010-2011, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
Top Student Paper, Human Communication and Technology Division, National Communication Association (NCA) Conference, Chicago, IL, November 2009
Top Student Paper, Intergroup Communication Interest Group, International Communication Association (ICA) Conference, Montreal, Canada, May 2008

Len-Ríos

About: As associate dean, Dr. Len-Ríos oversees assessment and accreditation, undergraduate services and curriculum, experiential learning and student career services, college-level promotion and tenure, scholarships and special awards, strategic planning, faculty development, and diversity, equity and inclusion efforts, as well as other duties as assigned. She chairs the College’s Standing Committee on Diversity and is faculty advisor to the College’s student chapter of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ). Dr. Len-Ríos teaches public relations, graduate seminars, and cross-cultural journalism courses. In 2019, she co-authored the co-edited textbook, “Cross-Cultural Journalism and Strategic Communication: Storytelling and Diversity,” (2^nd Ed.) with Dr. Earnest Perry (Routledge/Taylor& Francis.) (1st edition, 2016, found here.)

View Curriculum Vitae

Education

Ph.D., Journalism, University of Missouri
M.S., Journalism, Grady College
B.A., Speech, International Studies and Spanish Literature, Macalester College

Research Interests and Activities

Dr. Len-Ríos’ research focuses on inequalities in public relations and health communication. Together with colleagues and doctoral students, she has earned more than 9 Top Paper awards in national and international academic conferences across multiple areas – public relations, health and science communication, mass communication & society, popular culture and magazine research. Len-Ríos has collaborated on interdisciplinary grant work, including a Washington University/Missouri School of Journalism NIH Center for Excellence in Cancer Communication Research. She has also been lead PI on the LASER project through the MU Mizzou Advantage program. She is an affiliate of the MU Center for Children and Families Across Cultures as part of the LASER collaborative, which is dedicated to studying the well-being of U.S. Latino adolescents. In addition, she served as an inaugural board member of The Herschel S. Horowitz Center for Health Literacy in the School of Public Health at the University of Maryland (2014-2016).

Dr. Len-Ríos was elected association-wide to serve a 3-year term starting in 2020-21 as a Board Member at Large for the International Communication Association (ICA), the leading international membership organization of communication researchers worldwide. She also serves as Co-Chair of ICA’s I.D.E.A. (Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Access) Standing Committee (formerly Task Force). Her service also extends to AEJMC (the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication), the largest association of educators in the field of journalism and mass communication. She is in her second term as an elected member of the Standing Committee on Research, which oversees all association-wide national research awards and research competitions. She is the incoming SCR chair for 2020-2021 and as such serves on the Board of Directors. She is also a member of Page Up of the Arthur W. Page Society, a membership organization of senior communicators.

Sought out for her research expertise, Dr. Len-Ríos is a member of the editorial boards of the Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, Public Relations Review, the International Journal of Strategic Communication, and The Howard Journal of Communications. Previously, she served as a member and chair of the Publications Committee for AEJMC (2013-2016), which oversees the flagship journals of the association. She is a former head of the Communication Theory & Methodology Division of the AEJMC (2007-2008).

Child immigrant detention: Spokesperson key messages, engineered frames and cultural rules María E. Len-Ríos

Abstract: PR professionals engineer acceptability for policy, such as child immigrant detention, through key messages. Agenda building, engineered frames and rules theories guide study of spokesperson attributions from 221 articles […]

Journalistic challenges to a politician’s race-related policies: Rules for interview appropriateness and perceptions of bias and credibility María E. Len-Ríos and Solyee Kim

Abstract: This study uses a randomized posttest-only between-subjects experiment to investigate the communication rules participants perceive after a journalist interviews a politician about race-related policies. The journalist’s adversarialness (no challenge, simple challenge, […]

Grant Award: Dr. Maria Len-Rios María E. Len-Ríos

Willis, Erin; Schauster, Erin; Len-Ríos, María E.; Debaere, Majorie. “Patient Influencers: The Morality of Paid Influence in Pharmaceutical Advertising.” Award Amount: $7,000; 2021 Page Center Ethics of Care grant from […]

Using Immersive Virtual Reality to Improve the Beliefs and Intentions of Influenza Vaccine Avoidant 18-to-49-Year-Olds: Considerations, Effects, and Lessons Learned. Nathaniel J. Evans, Glen Nowak, Bartosz Wojdynski, Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn & María E. Len-Ríos

Abstract: Only one-third of adults 18 to 49 years old in the United States receive a recommended annual influenza vaccination. This study examined whether supplementing vaccine information statements (VIS) with […]

Latino trust in journalists and the 2016 U.S. general election: An analysis of voter responses María E. Len-Ríos and Ivanka Pjesivac

Additional author: Patricia Moy Abstract: This paper reports qualitative and quantitative data from a national online panel survey of Latinos (N=720) after the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Participants reported in […]

Mixed methods to examine communication crises: Combining a case study with the experimental method María E. Len-Ríos

Additional authors: Manu Bhandari & Kyung Jung Han Abstract: In 2013, U.S. television chef Paula Deen faced a public relations crisis following news reports of a court deposition in which she had […]

Teaching Specialties

Dr. Len-Ríos has taught courses in cross-cultural journalism, public relations, public relations writing, public relations administration/management, strategic campaigns, master’s thesis seminar, quantitative methods, mass media seminar and doctoral seminar courses.

Experience

Before coming to UGA, Dr. Len-Ríos served 10 years as a faculty member at the Missouri School of Journalism on the strategic communication faculty, two years at the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Kansas, and two years at Georgia Southern University. Her students have won first place in the Arthur W. Page Society Case Study Competition in Corporate Communication.

Awards and Fellowships

• Latino/Latin American Research Award, 3^rd Place, granted by the AEJMC International Communication Division (ICD) and the AEJMC Minorities and Communication Division (MAC), Washington, D.C., 2018

• PRIME Research Award, 20th Annual Conference, International Public Relations Research Conference, 2017

• PRSA Health Academy/Quinnipiac University Paper Competition Winner, 2010

King

About: Dr. King has taught advertising media planning, advertising campaigns and advertising research. Her research interests include advertising industry issues and health communication.

Dr. King officially retired in August, 2020, but she still advises some Ph.D. students and co-directs the Cannes Lions program.

View Curriculum Vitae

Education

Ph.D., Communications, University of Illinois
M.S., Advertising, University of Illinois
B.S., Advertising, University of Illinois

Research Interests and Activities

Dr. King’s research principally focuses on health communications and advertising industry issues. She has published her research in leading academic journals including Journal of Advertising, Journal of Advertising Research, Journal of Public Policy and Marketing, Journal of Current Issues and Research in Advertising, Journalism and Mass Communication Quarterly, Journal of Newspaper Research, Journal of Health Care Marketing and Journalism Educator. She was the editor of the 1994 Proceedings of the American Academy of Advertising Conference. In addition, Dr. King has presented her work at numerous advertising, marketing and mass communication academic conferences.

The influence of socialization agents on consumer responses to over-the-counter medicine advertising (OTCA) Karen Whitehill King and Emeritus and Retired Faculty

Abstract: This study examined the mechanisms through which attitudes toward OTCA in general and OTCA prompted behaviors are formed based on a consumer socialization framework. An online survey was conducted using […]

Study finds Grady College Advertising/Public Relations excels in advertising research productivity. Hye Jin Yoon, Karen Whitehill King & Nathaniel J. Evans

Faculty and doctoral graduates in the Department of Advertising and Public Relations in Grady College were the most visible authors or co-authors in the three leading peer-reviewed advertising research journals from 2008-2019, […]

Putting Things into Context: A Meta-Analysis of Media Context Effects on Attitudinal Outcomes Karen Whitehill King

Abstract: The role of media context in advertising has been the subject of interest for marketers and media practitioners over the past fifty years. However, there remains a lack of […]

The Effect of Media Multitasking on Ad Memory: The Moderating Role of Program-Induced Engagement and Brand Familiarity Karen Whitehill King

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of program-induced engagement on the amount of media multitasking (MM) and its subsequent impact on ad memory. It explored […]

Journal of Advertising Research Best Academic Paper Award Karen Whitehill King

Eun Sook Kwon, (Grady PhD, Rochester Institute of Technology), Karen Whitehill King (University of Georgia), Greg Nyilasy (Grady PhD, University of Melbourne) and Leonard N. Reid (University of Georgia), (2019). […]

In-Stream Video Advertising: Effects of Congruence and Advertisement Positions on Consumer Response Karen Whitehill King and Shuoya Sun Accepted for presentation at the 2019 American Academy of Advertising (AAA) Annual Conference, March 2019, Dallas, TX.

Abstract: This study examines the effects of ad-context congruence and ad positions on consumers’ response in an in-stream video advertising setting. Findings of the study indicate that, regardless of ad […]

Viral Video Ads: Emotional Triggers and Social Media Virality Karen Whitehill King

Abstract: Previous studies have found that emotional arousal and emotional valence are important for video ads to be shared. As marketers are exploring new strategies to increase their viral effectiveness […]

The Impact of Media Context on Advertising Memory: A Meta-Analysis of Advertising Memory Karen Whitehill King and Emeritus and Retired Faculty

Abstract: Media professionals and scholars have examined the influence of media context on advertising effectiveness for more than 50 years, but clarity regarding media-context effects remains lacking, amid an abundance […]

Teaching Specialties

Her primary teaching interests are media planning, advertising account planning/research and advertising campaigns. With Margaret Morrision at the University of Tenneesee, Dr. King coauthored a textbook supplement, Media Buying Simulation. She is a member of the Graduate Faculty and was a participant in the UGA Lilly Teaching Fellows program. In 1999, she was named the Donald G. Hileman Educator of the Year by the American Advertising Federation’s Seventh District for her work with the University of Georgia Ad Club and campaign competition team.

Experience

Prior to joining the Grady College, Dr. King worked at Foote, Cone and Belding Communications, Inc. in Chicago as a media buyer/planner and a research supervisor. While on the faculty at UGA, she has been a visiting communication researcher at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta working on their AIDS public service campaign and a visiting professor at Lintas in New York. She served as a research consultant to Searle, Sylvan Learning Centers, Promedica, WAGA-TV and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Awards and Fellowships

In September 2001, Dr. King was nominated to UGA’s Teaching Academy. The Academy recognizes excellence in teaching and exists to promote improved teaching throughout the University. Dr. King was named a Meigs Distinguished Teaching Professor, UGA’s highest teaching honor, in 2016.

Jin

About

Dr. Yan Jin teaches undergraduate Public Relations (PR), PR Research, PR Administration, AdPR Health, Crisis Communication, and PR Campaigns courses. She also teaches doctoral-level mass communication theory course. As a public relations scholar, Dr. Jin’s primary research programs are in the areas of crisis communication, strategic conflict management, and health risk communication, focusing on the role of emotions and social media in crisis and risk communication theory and application.

View Curriculum Vitae

Education

Ph.D., University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
M.A., University of Missouri, Columbia, MO
B.A., Peking University, Beijing, China

Research Interests and Activities

Dr. Jin’s work serves as a framework for crisis and risk communication in a rapidly evolving media landscape and amidst emotionally charged conflict situations, ranging from organizational crises to disasters and public health emergencies. Strategic communicators facing high-stake threats have an increasing need for evidence-based guidelines for crisis and risk information dissemination to address affected communities’ informational and emotional needs, to ensure safety and welfare of publics and organizations, and ultimately to build community resilience and aid crisis recovery. Dr. Jin’s research program in crisis communication, conflict management, and health risk communication contribute to the advancement of strategic communication theory and provide insights for public relations practice.

Dr. Jin has authored more than 90 peer-reviewed journal articles and over 20 book chapters. She is the lead-editor of the book Advancing Crisis Communication Effectiveness: Integrating Public Relations Scholarship with Practice (Routledge, 2021): https://www.routledge.com/Advancing-Crisis-Communication-Effectiveness-Integrating-Public-Relations/Jin-Reber-Nowak/p/book/9780367353179, and co-editor of the book Social Media and Crisis Communication (Routledge, 2017): https://www.routledge.com/Social-Media-and-Crisis-Communication/Austin-Jin/p/book/9781138812000. She has presented over 100 refereed papers at leading national and international conferences. Dr. Jin was named a Top 2 “Most Productive Scholar” in crisis communication research according to a 2014 refereed article in International Journal of Strategic Communication. She was recently named a Top 27 “Most Cited Public Relations Author” according to a 2019 refereed article in Journal of Public Relations Research, and a Top 6 “Most Published Author” in Public Relations Review and Top 16 “Most Cited Author” in Public Relations Review articles according to a refereed analysis presented at National Communication Association (NCA)’s 2020 convention.

Dr. Jin has published in leading journals in the field, including Communication Research, Journal of Applied Communication Research, Journal of Public Relations Research, Public Relations Review, Public Relations Journal, Journalism and Mass Communication Quarterly, International Journal of Strategic Communication, Corporate Communication: An International Journal, Journal of Contingencies and Crisis Management, Health Communication, Journal of Health Communication, Vaccine, British Journal of Medicine and Medical Research, American Journal of Infection Control, Social Marketing Quarterly, and Journal of Homeland Security and Emergency Management. Her work has also been published in leading scholarly books, including The Handbook of Crisis Communication, SAGE Handbook of Public Relations, and New Media and Public Relations.

Mask-wearing as an Unspoken Statement of One’s Identity during the COVID-19 Pandemic Yan Jin and Ja Kyung Seo

Abstract: Interpreting a facemask as an unspoken statement of one’s identity during the COVID-19 pandemic based on product symbolism theory, the present study examines the relationships among one’s trust in […]

Exploring Differences in Crisis Literacy and Efficacy on Behavioral Responses during Infectious Disease Outbreaks Yan Jin

Abstract: This study examined the effects of literacy and efficacy on individuals’ protective action taking and information seeking during the early phase of infectious disease outbreaks through a nationally representative survey […]

Crisis Information Vetting: Extending the Social-Mediated Crisis Communication Model Yan Jin and Xuerong Lu

Abstract: Social media provides users easy access to unpredictable and unfiltered information from multiple sources during crises, further challenging publics to discern the accuracy of the information they receive and […]

Crisis Misinformation and Corrective Strategies in Social-Mediated Crisis Communication Yan Jin

Abstract: The social-mediated crisis communication domain is flooded with misinformation in various forms, causing misperception about a crisis and trigger negative crisis outcomes that harm organizational reputation and publics’ wellbeing. […]

Factors that Impact COVID-19 Conspirational Beliefs and Health-Related Behaviors Ivanka Pjesivac, Leslie Klein, Wenqing Zhao & Yan Jin

Abstract: To further investigate the role of conspirational beliefs on health-related behaviors during a health pandemic such as COVID-19, we conducted an online survey among U.S. adults (N = 798) […]

Trust and Cultural Factors Shaping COVID-19 Vaccination Intentions across Six Countries Sung In Choi and Yan Jin

Abstract: Based on a COVID-19 pandemic communication survey (N = 3,124) in Australia, Finland, Italy, South Korea, Sweden, and the United States, our study examined how trust in government sources […]

Threat Assessments and Organization Resources for DEI and Ethics: Practitioner Insights on Sticky Crises Taylor Voges, Solyee Kim, JeongHyun (Janice) Lee, Sara Ervin, Yan Jin & Bryan H. Reber

Responding to Fire Ignited from Outside: Explicating “Crisis Spillover” through the Multi-Layered Lens of Organizational Crisis Communication Taylor Voges, Xuerong Lu & Yan Jin

Abstract: Crises have been examined from the perspective of the crisis origin organization. Depending on the crisis type, other organizations might experience impacts because of the initial crisis. This emerging […]

Trust: The Shrouded Public Health Threat Xuerong Lu and Yan Jin

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic, characterized by unprecedented loss of life; political instability; and a global infodemic, has eroded public trust in all types of institutions (Edelman, 2021) except business. Public […]

How Diverse Publics’ Perceptions of Health Information Channel Credibility and COVID-19 Risk Impacted Their Preventive Behavioral Intention: Insights from a U.S. National Survey Sung In Choi, Yan Jin & Solyee Kim

Abstract: Using an online survey of a representative U.S. adult sample, this study revealed how publics perceived COVID-19 risk and credibility of information channels differently, which further predicted intention to […]

How Emotional Appeals in Health Promotion Messages and User-generated Comments Impact COVID-19 Vaccination Intention: The Mediating Role of Psychological Reactance Youngji Seo, Wenqing Zhao, Sung In Choi & Yan Jin

Abstract: To close existing research gap and combat vaccine hesitancy among young adults, we conduct this study to integrate psychological reactance theory to better understand the effectiveness of three emerging […]

Think Before You Share: Beliefs and Emotions that Shaped COVID-19 (Mis)information Vetting and Sharing Intentions among WhatsApp Users in the United Kingdom Yan Jin and Xuerong Lu

Abstract: This study examined how individuals’ emotional and cognitive responses to different shades of truth embedded in health crisis (mis)information (i.e., full falsity vs. partial falsity vs. full truth) might […]

Does Culture Matter? Measuring Cross-Country Perceptions of CSR Communication Campaigns about COVID-19 Sung In Choi, Yan Jin & Solyee Kim

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has brought several challenges to businesses and societies. In response, many corporations have supported local communities and authorities in the management of the pandemic. Although these […]

Effective and Ethical Team Management of Sticky Crisis Communication Challenges Taylor Voges and Yan Jin

Book Description: The purpose of this book is to provide insights into effective and ethical management of “sticky crises” (i.e., industry-wide crisis issues that are complex and challenging, with and […]

The Power of Myth and Truth: Uncovering the History and Growing Role of Native Americans in Public Relations Yan Jin and Taylor Voges

Yan Jin (PI), Shelley Spector (Co-PI), and Taylor Voges (PhD Candidate, Co-PI). “The Power of Myth and Truth: Uncovering the History and Growing Role of Native Americans in Public Relations.” The Arthur W. Page Center […]

Dynamics of Feedback Behaviours to Social Peers Sharing COVID-19 Misinformation on WhatsApp in Brazil Yan Jin

Santosh Vijaykumar, Daniel Rogerson, Yan Jin, and Mariella Silva de Oliveira Costa. (forthcoming). “Dynamics of Feedback Behaviours to Social Peers Sharing COVID-19 Misinformation on WhatsApp in Brazil.” Abstract: Online COVID-19 misinformation is […]

Combating the COVID-19 Infodemic Through Evidence-Based Misinformation Management Strategies Yan Jin

Funding Source: U.S. Food & Drug Administration via a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA) Total Amount: $224,478.00 Project period: 09/30/2021 to 06/29/2024 Project Summary: We propose a multi-phase research project that […]

Breaking the sound of silence: Explication in the use of strategic silence in crisis communication Sung In Choi, Yan Jin, Youngji Seo & Bryan H. Reber

Effective Health Risk Communications: Lessons Learned about COVID-19 Pandemic through the Lens of Practitioners Yan Jin and Taylor Voges

Abstract: The study utilizes semi-structured interviews of health risk communication practitioners in the backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. The contingency theory of strategic conflict management is the guide to understanding […]

A New Conceptual Model for Understanding Interracial Communication Apprehension: How Does Racial Representation in Television-Entertainment Media Impact Interracial Conversation? Yan Jin

Aarum Youn-Heil (Grady PhD student) and Yan Jin. Abstract: This study proposes a new conceptual model for understanding interracial communication apprehension (IRCA), delineating how people of color use various communication practices (Orbe, […]

Unintended Effects of Risk Communication: Impacts of Message Fatigue, Risk Tolerance, and Trust in Public Health Information on Psychological Reactance Youngji Seo, Bryan H. Reber & Yan Jin

Uncertainty Management in Organizational Crisis Communication: The Impact of Crisis Responsibility Uncertainty and Attribution-based Emotions on Publics’ Further Crisis Information Seeking Xuerong Lu and Yan Jin

Abstract: Although uncertainty has been identified as a key crisis characteristic and a multi-faceted construct essential to effective crisis management research and practice, only a few studies examined publics’ perceived […]

Infectious Disease Risk (IDR) Perception and Prospective Tourists’ Travel Intention to a Mega-sport Event Host Country: The Mediating Role of Risk Information Seeking Yan Jin and DongWon Choi

Abstract: While risk perception has been the subject of many sport tourism studies, much remains to be linked with risk information seeking, travel-related response, and behavior in the sport tourism […]

The Effects of Responding Strategy with Crisis Narratives on Effectiveness of Communicating Ongoing Crisis of Sexual Harassment Xuerong Lu and Yan Jin

Abstract: Effective response strategies and narratives are crucial for organizations to manage crisis situations. Grounded in SCCT (Coombs, 2007) and narratives of crisis (Seeger & Sellnow, 2016), this study aims […]

Uncovering layers in health risk communication: The roles of risk tolerance, message fatigue, and trust Yan Jin and Youngji Seo

Abstract: One of the understudied topics in risk communication is why individuals do not follow or are resistant to recommended behaviors that optimize personal health outcomes. To understand the dimensionality […]

The Roles of Perceived Uncertainty of Crisis Responsibility and Attribution-based Crisis Emotions on Publics’ Information Seeking about an Organizational Crisis Xuerong Lu and Yan Jin

Abstract: Uncertainty is one of the key characteristics of an organizational crisis that needs to be addressed in an organization’s crisis responses. Although a large body of uncertainty research has […]

Tracing the Caring Relationships Found Within Three Virus Outbreaks: A Public Health Communications Perspective Yan Jin

Abstract: The world is subject to many an affliction and pandemic, as seen most recently with COVID-19. This study, in an attempt to better understand the trends and workings of […]

Strategic Decision-Making for Public Relations: Determining the Importance of Contingency Theory Factors Through a Conjoint Analysis Yan Jin and Bryan H. Reber

How Shades of Truth and Age Affect Responses to COVID-19 (Mis)information: Randomized Survey Experiment among WhatsApp Users in UK and Brazil Yan Jin and Xuerong Lu

Abstract: We examined how age and exposure to different types of COVID-19 (mis)information affect misinformation beliefs, perceived credibility of the message and intention-to-share it on WhatsApp. Through two mixed-design online […]

Yan Jin is named a Top 6 “Most Published Author” Yan Jin

Dr. Yan Jin is named a Top 6 “Most Published Author” in Public Relations Review and a Top 16 “Most Cited Author” in Public Relations Review articles. [Source: Page, T. […]

How College Students Assess the Threat of Infectious Diseases: Implications for University Leaders and Health Communicators. Yan Jin

Abstract: Higher education institutions and their students face a wide range of infectious disease threats (IDTs). However, there is a lack of theory-driven research on how to provide communication for […]

Individualizing Mental Health Responsibilities on Sina Weibo: A Content Analysis of Depression Framing by Media Organizations and Mental Health Institutions. Yan Jin

Abstract: Depression is a major threat to public health in China. Although many social determinants have been recognized as robust predictors of health outcomes, depression is still widely viewed and […]

The Conceptualization of Risk Tolerance and Scale Development for Measuring Publics’ Tolerance of Individual Health Risks Yan Jin

Hyoyeun Jun (Grady PhD Alum) and Yan Jin (Forthcoming). “The Conceptualization of Risk Tolerance and Scale Development for Measuring Publics’ Tolerance of Individual Health Risks.” Journal of International Crisis and […]

The Infectious Disease Threat (IDT) Appraisal Model: How Perceptions of IDT Predictability and Controllability Predict Individuals’ Responses to Risks Yan Jin

Yan Jin, Irina A. Iles, Lucinda Austin, Brooke Liu, and Gregory R. Hancock (Forthcoming). “The Infectious Disease Threat (IDT) Appraisal Model: How Perceptions of IDT Predictability and Controllability Predict Individuals’ […]

Ethical and Effective Multi-Agency Public Crisis Communications: Lessons Learned from Recent U.S. History and through the Lens of Practitioners Who Fought in the Trench Warfare against the COVID-19 Pandemic Yan Jin

Yan Jin (PI). Grant from Arthur W. Page Center for Integrity in Public Communication: ($4,500, 2020-2021). [Co-PIs: Shelley Spector and Lashonda Eaddy (Grady PhD Alum)] “Ethical and Effective Multi-Agency Public Crisis […]

The Effects of Corrective Communication and Employee Backup on the Effectiveness of Fighting Crisis Misinformation Yan Jin and Xuerong Lu

Abstract: Crisis misinformation, including false information about a crisis or a crisis-stricken organization, has become a fundamental threat to organizational wellbeing. Effective crisis response geared toward fighting crisis misinformation demands […]

Assessing an Organizational Crisis at the Construal Level: How Psychological Distance Impacts Publics’ Crisis Responses Yan Jin and Bryan H. Reber

Telling the Tale: The Role of Narratives in Helping People Respond to Crises. Yan Jin

Brooke Liu, Lucinda Austin, Yen-I Lee, Yan Jin, and Seoyeon Kim. (Forthcoming). “Telling the Tale: The Role of Narratives in Helping People Respond to Crises.” Journal of Applied Communication Research. […]

Controversial Fashion and Corporate Crisis Learning: An Analysis of the Recent History of Diversity-Related Crisis Events in the Global Fashion Industry Yan Jin

Abstract: In recent years, several fashion organizations have received trenchant criticisms made against garments and fashion campaigns that included designs and graphics with negative racial connotations. Crisis issues can be […]

Information Vetting as a Key Component in Social-Mediated Crisis Communication: An Exploratory Study to Examine the Initial conceptualization Yan Jin and Xuerong Lu

Abstract: In order to understand publics’ crisis information consumption in an increasingly competitive and conflicting media environment, this study addresses how and why individuals vet information (or not) in social-mediated […]

To Vet, or Not: That Is the Process: Scale Development for Measuring Individuals’ Information Vetting Yan Jin and Xuerong Lu

Accepted for presentation at the International Communication Association (ICA) Conference, Information Systems Division, May 21-25, 2020, Gold Coast, Australia. Abstract: To refine the conceptualization and operationalization of information vetting in […]

The Strategic Role of Visuals and Cultural Appeals in Help-Support Campaigns: Engaging Chinese Immigrants in Depression Communication on Social Media Yan Jin

Accepted for presentation at the International Communication Association (ICA) Conference, Health Communication Division, May 21-25, 2020, Gold Coast, Australia. Abstract: This study investigated the effect of different framing, visual, and […]

The Effects of Corrective Communication and Employee Backup on the Effectiveness of Fighting Crisis Misinformation Yan Jin and Xuerong Lu

Accepted for presentation at the International Communication Association (ICA) Conference, Public Relations Division, May 21-25, 2020, Gold Coast, Australia. Abstract: Crisis misinformation, including false information about a crisis or a […]

True or False: How Parents Decide to Seek, Vet, or Share Infectious Disease Outbreak Information Yan Jin and Xuerong Lu

Accepted for presentation at the International Crisis and Risk Communication Conference (ICRCC), March 9-11, 2020, Orlando, FL. Abstract: Numerous studies have explored how publics seek and share crisis information, but […]

Integrating Strategy and Dosage: A New Conceptual Formula for Assessing Intended and Unintended Effects of Health Risk Communication Xuerong Lu and Yan Jin

Accepted for presentation at the International Crisis and Risk Communication Conference (ICRCC), March 9-11, 2020, Orlando, FL. Abstract: How to detect side effects of repeated exposure of the same or […]

The Effects of Threat Type and Gain-Loss Framing on At-Risk Publics’ Responses to Environmental Risk Communication DongWon Choi and Yan Jin

Accepted for presentation at the 23rd annual International Public Relations Research Conference (IPRRC), March 5-7, 2020, Orlando, FL. Abstract: This study examines the effects of environmental risk perception and risk […]

Advancing Crisis Communication Effectiveness: Integrating Crisis Communication and Social Media Scholarship with Practice Yan Jin

Accepted for presentation at the International Crisis and Risk Communication Conference (ICRCC), March 9-11, 2020, Orlando, FL. Abstract: Social media have become dominant channels for organizations and citizens to share […]

How Stakeholders React to Mobile-Enhanced Corporate Disaster Relief Efforts Yan Jin

Invited Article: Yi-Ru Regina Chen, Yang Cheng, Chun-Ju Flora Hung-Baesecke, and Yan Jin (12/10/2019). “How Stakeholders React to Mobile-Enhanced Corporate Disaster Relief Efforts.” Behavioral Insights Research Center, Institute for Public […]

Book Contract – Social Media and Crisis Communication (Second Edition) Yan Jin

Lucinda Austin and Yan Jin (Eds.) (Forthcoming in 2021). Social Media and Crisis Communication (Second Edition), Routledge.

Information Vetting as a Key Component in Social-mediated Crisis Communication: An Exploratory Study Xuerong Lu, Yan Jin & Taeyeon Kim

Abstract: In order to understand publics’ information consumption behavior in current media environment, this study addresses how and why individuals vet information (or not) in crisis situations. Grounded in dual-process […]

Social Media Strategies for Overcoming Stakeholder Social Media Fatigue: A Trialogue Approach Youngji Seo, Marilyn Primovic & Yan Jin

Abstract: The continuation of rapid changes in Web 2.0 has transformed the practice of business communication and stakeholders’ expectations. One paramount issue facing corporate communicators is stakeholders’ social media fatigue […]

Opening the Minds’ Eye: The Pivotal Role of Sympathy in Depression Coverage Effectiveness Yan Jin

Abstract: Depression is one of the most severe health threats to the college student population. Depression communication plays an essential role in reducing stigma and discrimination against sufferers. However, the […]

Dissecting the Root of Vaccine Misinformation on Pinterest: A Content Analysis of Vaccine-Related Pins by Influential Social Media Accounts Michael Cacciatore and Yan Jin

Abstract: Given the role the Internet plays in communicating anti-vaccine sentiments, coupled with limited research in this area, this study focused on the social media platform Pinterest, analyzing 1,119 vaccine-related […]

The State of Crisis Communication Research and Education Through the Lens of Crisis Scholars: An International Delphi Study Bryan H. Reber and Yan Jin

2019 Emerald Literati Award for Excellence Yan Jin

2019 Emerald Literati Award for Excellence – Highly Commended Paper, Corporate Communications: an International Journal -LaShonda Eaddy and Yan Jin (2018). “Crisis History Tellers Matter: The Effects of Crisis History […]

Book Contract: Advancing Crisis Communication Effectiveness: Integrating Public Relations Scholarship with Practice Yan Jin, Glen Nowak & Bryan H. Reber

“Engaging International Publics via Mobile-Enhanced CSR (mCSR): A Cross-National Study on Stakeholder Reactions to Corporate Disaster Relief Efforts.” Yan Jin

Abstract: With globalization, corporations increasingly have to consider both domestic stakeholders and overseas stakeholders (i.e., international publics) in their corporate social responsibility (CSR) practice. Digitalization empowers international publics to scrutinize […]

“What Makes Social Movement Campaigns Go Viral on Social Media? The Role of Narrative Features and Cultural Influences.” Yan Jin and Xuerong Lu

Abstract: Social movements and social issue related public discourse has become one of the most impactful public communication phenomena in the digital space. Previous studies have examined the association between […]

The Role of Regret and Hope in Anti-smoking Loss-Framing-Based Narrative Persuasion. Yan Jin and Xuerong Lu Accepted by the 69th Annual International Communication Association (ICA) Conference, Washington DC, 24-28 May 2019. Division: Health Communication

Abstract: this study examines the effect of discrete emotional appeal (i.e., regret and hope) in loss-framing-based narrative by exploring its impact on people’s emotional engagement and attitude toward the smoking […]

A framework for understanding misinformation and rumor: Analysis of social media crises and misinformation characteristics Yan Jin The International Crisis and Risk Communication Conference, March 11-13, 2019, Orlando, FL.

Abstract: In a polarizing media environment increasingly fraught with misinformation, disinformation, contradicting information, and rumor, it is tougher than ever for brands and agencies to correct the record or make […]

Crisis Information Vetting in Social-Mediated Crisis and Risk Communication: A Conceptual Framework Yan Jin and Xuerong Lu The International Crisis and Risk Communication Conference, March 11-13, 2019, Orlando, FL.

Abstract: The proliferation of news sources and user-generated content, which is flooded by misinformation (Southwell, Thorson, & Sheble, 2018), present an urgent need for research that investigates audiences’ information consumption […]

Health Risk Tolerance as a Key Determinant of (Un)willingness to Behavior Change: Conceptualization and Scale Development Yan Jin and Hyoyeun Jun The International Crisis and Risk Communication Conference, March 11-13, 2019, Orlando, FL.

Abstract: As Heath and O’Hair (2009) defined, crisis is when risk is manifested. The urgency and uncertainty of crisis can induce more complexity to organizations (Seeger, Sellnow, & Ulmer, 1998). […]

Seeking Formula for Misinformation Treatment in Public Health Crises: The Effects of Corrective Information Type and Source Yan Jin

Abstract: An increasing lack of information truthfulness has become one fundamental challenge to communications. Insights into how to debunk this type of misinformation can especially be crucial for public health […]

Communicating about Infectious Disease Threats: Insights from Public Health Information Officers Yan Jin and Hyoyeun Jun

Abstract: The public health communication challenges that arise in times of infectious disease threats (IDTs) were examined using the Risk Amplification through Media Spread (RAMS) Framework and in-depth phone interviews […]

Can Google Analytics Certification Cultivate PR students’ competency in digital analytics? A longitudinal pedagogical research Yan Jin, Solyee Kim & Juan Meng

Abstract: This longitudinal pedagogical research investigates students’ perceptions and learning outcomes by integrating web and social analytics-based learning activities (i.e., Google Analytics courses and certification test) into Public Relations Research […]

When CSR Meets Mobile SNA Users in Mainland China: An Examination of Gratifications Sought, CSR Motives, and Relational Outcomes in Natural Disasters Yan Jin

Abstract: With the heavy use of mobile social networking applications (SNA), corporations have widely applied corporate social responsibility activities enhanced by mobile technologies (i.e., mCSR) to target stakeholders. This study […]

Grant Awarded: Misinformation Vulnerabilities among Elderly during Disease Outbreaks Yan Jin

Abstract: This study aims to identify the nature of, and find potential solutions to the kinds of vulnerabilities that misinformation imposes on older adults during infectious disease outbreaks with a […]

How Financial Crisis History Informs Ethical Corporate Communication: Insights from Corporate Communication Leaders Camila Espina, Yan Jin & Bryan H. Reber

Mobile Corporate Social Responsibility (mCSR): Examining Publics’ Responses to CSR-Based Initiatives in Natural Disasters Yan Jin

Abstract: As social media use on mobile devices has been integrated in people’s daily lives, corporations began to target the publics on corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities on mobile devices. […]

How Financial Crisis History Informs Ethical Corporate Communication: Insights from Corporate Communication Leaders Camila Espina, Yan Jin & Bryan H. Reber

Crisis Information Seeking and Sharing (CISS): Scale Development for Measuring Publics’ Communicative Behavior in Social-Mediated Public Health Crises Yan Jin

Abstract: This study first refined the conceptual framework of publics’ communicative behavior in social-mediated health crises. Then two multiple-item scales for measuring publics’ health crisis information seeking and sharing (CISS) […]

Teaching Specialties

Dr. Jin teaches PR Research, PR Administration, PR Campaigns, AdPR Health, Crisis Communication, and Mass Communication Theory. Her PR Campaigns class has collaborated with The Home Depot and eBay, while her AdPR Health class has worked on strategic health communication projects with Amgen and Publicis Health. She also served as faculty advisor for Grady PRSSA Chapter’s Bateman Team (2016, 2017 and 2018).

In 2016, Dr. Jin led the Grady@Oxford Summer Study Abroad Program at Oxford University, UK. She has guest-lectured for a number of universities in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.

Experience

Dr. Jin serves on the editorial board of Journal of Public Relations Research, Public Relations Review, Communication Research, Journal of International Crisis and Risk Communication Research, and Journal of Public Interest Communications. She is the editor of the proceedings of Corporate Communication International (CCI) Conference on Corporate Communication. She is an affiliated researcher of the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism at the University of Maryland. She is also a faculty affiliate of the Owens Institute for Behavioral Research (OIBR) at the University of Georgia.

Actively engaged in bridging the gap between academia and industry, Dr. Jin has contributed over a dozen articles to professional publications and outlets with a global outreach, such as Communication Director, PR Tactics, and Institute for Public Relations’ Social Science for Social Media Research Center. She has given a seminar talk at the National Conference of State Legislatures, conducted professional workshops at the Public Relations Society of America’s international conferences, and presented at the Public Relations Leadership Summit sponsored by The Plank Center for Leadership in Public Relations. She was a keynote speaker at the 2019 International Crisis and Risk Communication Conference. Dr. Jin serves on the research committee of the Association for Business Communication. She is a member of CCI’s board of trustees. She also serves on the Museum of Public Relations’ board of trustees.

She is the co-founder and co-host of Crisis Communication Think Tank (CCTT) at UGA, which aims to advance crisis communication effectiveness through dialogue and collaboration among leading public relations scholars and practitioners on emerging and complex crisis issues.

Awards and Honors

Dr. Jin received the 2014 Krieghbaum Under-40 Award from the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC). This prestigious national award is given annually by AEJMC to recognize the recipient’s outstanding achievement in research, teaching, and public service. In 2016, Dr. Jin was elected to the Arthur W. Page Society based on her teaching and research distinction in corporate communications. In 2017, Dr. Jin was accepted for placement on the Fulbright Specialist Roster (2017-2020) by the U.S. Department of State, Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, becoming eligible to be matched with projects designed by international host institutions. In 2019, Dr. Jin received the Kitty O. Locker Outstanding Researcher Award from the Association for Business Communication (ABC), an international award that recognizes excellence in business communication research and outstanding contribution to the business communication discipline.

Dr. Jin has earned numerous top paper awards at leading conferences, including the International Public Relations Research Conference, the International Communication Association, the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication, and the National Communication Association conferences. She was named a Page Legacy Scholar in 2013, 2016, 2017, and 2019 by the Arthur W. Page Center for Integrity in Public Communication.

Serving as principle investigator (PI), co-investigator (CI), or lead researcher, Dr. Jin has contributed to public relations, crisis communication, strategic conflict management, health and risk communication projects funded by the National Institutes of Health, Arthur W. Page Center for Integrity in Public Communication, The Plank Center for Leadership in Public Relations, C. R. Anderson Research Fund of the Association for Business Communication, and WhatsApp Research Awards for Social Science and Misinformation.

Dr. Jin was named the Georgia Athletic Association Professor in Grady College in November 2018.

Han

About: Dr. Han teaches communication theory, research methods, and technology and health. Research foci include health communication and technology, new media effects, and research methods and design.

View Curriculum Vitae

Education

Ph.D., Mass Communication, University of Wisconsin – Madison (Minor: Statistics in Social Science)
M.A., Communication, Seoul National University, South Korea
B.A., Communication, Seoul National University, South Korea (Summa Cum Laude)

Research Interests and Activities

Han’s research mainly concerns the design and evaluation of interactive health communication campaigns, the benefits of online social support groups for cancer and other health related cognitions and behaviors, and statistical methods and research design. Han has developed programs of research on (a) antecedents and consequences of engagement with various eHealth initiatives, particularly focusing on theory and measurement development, (b) transaction logfile analysis, a unique method to probe interaction between computer and human, and (c) message expression and reception effects, particularly within online social media tools. Articles presenting this work appear in leading communication, psychology, and public health journals: Computers in Human Behavior, Health Communication, Health Education Research, International Journal of Medical Informatics, Journal of Broadcasting & Electronic Media, Journal of Communication, Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, Journal of Health Communication, Journal of Health Psychology, Mass Communication and Society, Patient Education and Counseling, Psycho-Oncology, and Translational Behavioral Medicine.

The Persuasive Effects of Narrative PSAs on COVID-19 Vaccination Intention: The Mediating Role of Empathy and Psychological Reactance Hanyoung Kim, Youngji Seo & Jeong-Yeob Han

Abstract: Successful COVID-19 vaccine promotion for the unvaccinated relies on increasing positive reactions but also reducing negative responses to persuasive messages. The current study examined the relative effects of narrative […]

Researcher-Practitioner Partnership to Promote Safety of Asian Women: Effectiveness of a Community- based Intervention Jeong-Yeob Han

Title: Researcher-Practitioner Partnership to Promote Safety of Asian Women: Effectiveness of a Community- based Intervention Funding Source: Office on Violence Against Women, U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against […]

Seeking Effective Advertising Appeals for Adults Who are Hesitant to COVID-19 Vaccination: The Role of Humor, Social Norm, and Threat Information Hye Jin Yoon and Jeong-Yeob Han

Hye Jin Yoon and Jeong-Yeob Han has been awarded the Faculty Seed Grants in the Sciences Program ($9,720) through The Owens Institute for Behavioral Research (OIBR) for their proposed project Abstract: People have been found to […]

The More You Win, The Less You Believe? An Examination of the Moderating Effect of Team Performance on Attitude Toward Message of Sport Fan’s Superstitions Jeong-Yeob Han

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to revisit the Bud Light “Superstitions” campaign, for which we examined how superstitious fans’ inferences of manipulative intention might influence their responses to […]

Exploring the Role of Social Support in Promoting Patient Participation in Health Care among Women with Breast Cancer Jeong-Yeob Han

Abstract: Scholars have adopted Street’s (2003) ecological model of communication in medical encounters to investigate the factors promoting patient participation in health care. However, factors demonstrated in the ecological model […]

Effects of Facebook Comments on Attitude Toward Vaccines: The Roles of Perceived Distributions of Public Opinion and Perceived Vaccine Efficacy Hanyoung Kim, Jeong-Yeob Han & Youngji Seo

Abstract: This study investigated if and how exposure to Facebook comments about vaccines influences one’s attitude toward the vaccines. In this investigation, comments were examined in light of their effect […]

The Effects of User Comment Valence of Social Media Health Campaigns on Intention to Vaccinate: The Role of Psychological Reactance Hanyoung Kim, Youngji Seo, Hye Jin Yoon & Jeong-Yeob Han

Paper to be presented to American Advertising Academy (AAA) conference, San Diego, CA. Abstract: Given the prevalent use of social media in disseminating public service announcements (PSAs) encouraging healthy behavior, […]

Effects of Social Media Comments on Attitude toward Vaccines: The Roles of Perceived Public Consensus and Perceived Vaccine Efficacy Jeong-Yeob Han, Hanyoung Kim & Youngji Seo

A Longitudinal Investigation of Empathic Exchanges in Online Cancer Support Groups: Message Reception and Expression Effects on Patients’ Psychosocial Health Outcomes. Jeong-Yeob Han and JeongHyun (Janice) Lee

Abstract: Recent studies have devoted attention to the effects of both expression and reception in communication process. However, there remain both theoretical and methodological complexities concerning whether and under what […]

Grant Awarded to Dr. Jeong-Yeob Han Jeong-Yeob Han

The Owens Institute for Behavioral Research (OIBR) Faculty Seed Grant Program in support of “Primary Prevention of Intimate Partner Violence in Immigrant Communities: Development of a Social Marketing Strategy” – […]

Jeong-Yeob Han has won the 2019 Enzaim Best Article Award Jeong-Yeob Han

Jeong-Yeob Han has won the 2019 Enzaim Best Article Award from Korea Health Communication Association (KHCA), in recognition of the article published in the journal Health Communication Research: “Co-presence in Gamified […]

A Longitudinal Investigation of Empathic Exchanges in Online Cancer Support Groups: Message Reception and Expression Effects on Patients’ Psychosocial Health Outcomes. Jeong-Yeob Han

What You Believe Might Not Be True: False Consensus Effect and the Flu Vaccine Controversy. Jeong-Yeob Han, Hanyoung Kim & Youngji Seo Paper to be presented to Mass Communication Division of the International Communication Association Annual Conference, Washington, D.C.

Abstract: According to studies on the impact of comments on the false consensus effect, exposure to other people’s reactions can elicit misperceptions, in turn influencing message acceptance. We investigated whether […]

Effects of Social Media Comments on Attitude toward Vaccines: The Roles of Perceived Public Consensus and Perceived Vaccine Efficacy. Jeong-Yeob Han, Hanyoung Kim & Youngji Seo Paper to be presented to Health Communication Division of the International Communication Association Annual Conference, Washington, D.C.

Abstract: Recognizing that social media has become an important place for individuals to acquire vaccine-related information, this study investigated if and how user-generated comments on social media platforms influence individuals’ […]

Effects of Social Media Comments on Attitude toward Vaccines: The Roles of Perceived Public Consensus and Perceived Vaccine Efficacy Jeong-Yeob Han and Hanyoung Kim Paper to be presented to the Health Communication Division of the International Communication Association Annual Conference, Washington, D.C.

Abstract: Recognizing that social media has become an important place for individuals to acquire vaccine-related information, this study investigated if and how exposure to user-generated comments in social media platforms […]

Co-presence in Gamified Geosocial Mobile Fitness Applications: Its Determinants and Effects on Perceived Support, Exercise Self-Efficacy, and Exercise Adherence. Jeong-Yeob Han

Abstract: Despite the popularity of gamified geosocial fitness applications, there are only a few empirical studies examining their effectiveness in promoting physical activity. This study proposes co-presence, which combines spatial […]

Teaching Specialties

Han’s areas of specializations are health communication and technology, communication theory, and research methods and design. He teaches courses in the Telecommunications Department and the New Media Institute. His courses include Tele3410, Media Research and Theory; Tele4290, Digital Media Production; NMIX4110, New Media Production; JRMC8010 Research Methodology in Mass Communication Research.

Awards and Fellowships

• ICA Communication and Technology Division, Top Three Faculty Paper (lead author) – 2011
• University of Georgia, Office of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Provost Travel Grant Award – 2011
• Listed in Marquis Who’s Who in America, 65th Edition – 2011
• University of Georgia, Office of the Vice President for Research, Foreign Travel Grant Award – 2010
• ICA Health Communication Division, Top Three Student Paper (lead author) – 2008
• ICA Health Communication Division, ICA Travel Grant Award – 2008
• ICA Health Communication Division, Top Student-led Paper (lead author) – 2007
• AEJMC Communication Technology Division, Top Three Faculty Paper (lead author) – 2006
• AEJMC Communication Technology & Policy Division, Top Three Faculty Paper – 2005
• University of Wisconsin-Madison, Mass Communication Research Center, Top Four Student Paper – 2005
• Seoul National University, Department of Communication, Summa Cum Laude – 1999

Cacciatore

About: Dr. Cacciatore teaches research methodology and introduction to public relations in the Department of Advertising & Public Relations. His research focuses on science and risk communication with an emphasis on media coverage of and opinion formation for such topics.

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Education

Ph.D., Mass Communication, University of Wisconsin-Madison
M.S., Life Sciences Communication, University of Wisconsin-Madison
B.A., English, University of Manitoba

Research Interests and Activities

Dr. Cacciatore’s research has examined the communication of science and risk topics ranging from nanotechnology to food safety to global climate change. A significant portion of this research has tracked media depictions of science and risk issues, paying particular attention to the role of social media in the communication process. His other research has focused most directly on the interplay between media, values and risk in public opinion formation. Dr. Cacciatore’s work has been published in Public Understanding of Science, Science Communication, Risk Analysis, New Media & Society, and Health Affairs among others.

Proposal Title: “Improving Infectious Disease Models with Longitudinal Surveys of Health Decision Making Preferences and Influences.” Glen Nowak and Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: The objective of this project is to create more reliable infectious disease models that are informed by social science regarding health-related preferences, perceptions and intentions/behaviors. This project will design […]

Measuring the value of public relations: An international investigation at how communication practitioners view the challenges and suggest solutions Michael Cacciatore and Juan Meng

Abstract: This research is motivated to advance our understanding of measurement challenges in communication practice and coping strategies from a global perspective. To do so, we relied on data from a […]

COVID-19 Vaccination and Public Health Communication Strategies: An In-depth Look at How Demographics, Political Ideology, and News/Information Source Preference Matter Michael Cacciatore and Glen Nowak

Abstract: Widely accepted public health actions and recommendations, particularly those related to vaccines, are critical to U.S. and global responses to infectious disease pandemics, such as COVID-19. Drawing from nationally […]

Leveraging the cybersecurity function to build influence and strategy: An empirical study of public relations professionals’ cybersecurity acumen Michael Cacciatore, Juan Meng & Bryan H. Reber

Are you JOKING??? Humor in science communication research and practice Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: Scientists have long incorporated humor into their communication, whether it be in informal presentations or peer-reviewed journal articles. Though it seems evident that humor could make stodgy scientific writing […]

Following science on social media: The effects of humor and source likability Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: Science communicators have been encouraged to use humor in their online engagement efforts. Yet, humor’s effectiveness for engaging people with science remains an open question. We report the results […]

Misinformation and public opinion of science and health: Approaches, findings, and future directions Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: A summary of the public opinion research on misinformation in the realm of science/health reveals inconsistencies in how the term has been defined and operationalized. A diverse set of […]

Measuring the value of public relations: An international investigation of how communication practitioners view the challenge and solutions Michael Cacciatore and Juan Meng

Generating science buzz: An examination of multidimensional engagement with humorous scientific messages on Twitter and Instagram Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: This study investigates the types of humor embedded in funny scientific posts on social media and their effects on engagement. We mapped the landscape of such posts on Twitter […]

The Landscape of Misinformation about Science … Revisited Michael Cacciatore

Invited panelist at the U.S. National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine Committee for Addressing Inaccurate and Misleading Information about Biological Threats through Scientific Collaboration and Communication, online. Dr. Cacciatore served […]

Measuring the value of public relations: An international investigation at how communication practitioners view the challenges and suggest solutions Michael Cacciatore and Juan Meng

Abstract This research is motivated to advance our understanding of measurement challenges in communication practice and coping strategies from a global perspective. To do so, we relied on data from […]

Engaging Multicultural Audiences through Inclusive STEM Content on YouTube Carolina Acosta-Alzuru and Michael Cacciatore

PIs: Adam Dylewski (PBS Digital Studios; Project PI); Sara K. Yeo (University of Utah; Co-PI); Michael A. Cacciatore (University of Georgia; Co-PI) Funding Source: National Science Foundation (#DRL-2120006) Total Amount: […]

UGA Transdisplinary Earth System Science for Global Solutions and Public Engagement (ENGAGE) Michael Cacciatore and Glen Nowak

Michael Cacciatore and Glen Nowak are part of a $2,974,744 five-year University of Georgia proposal submitted to the National Science Foundation to create a UGA Transdisplinary Earth System Science for […]

Centers of Excellence for Influenza Research and Response (CIERR) Michael Cacciatore, Glen Nowak, Glenna Read, Bartosz Wojdynski & Itai Himelboim

Glen Nowak, Michael Cacciatore, Bart Wojdynski, Glenna Read, and Itai Himelboim are part of a University of Georgia proposal submitted in response to a National Institutes of Health call for […]

The science of #scicomm: On emotion and humor. Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: Emotional appeals are encouraged when engaging with public audiences. Yet, we lack evidence of the effectiveness of using such appeals in science communication. Here we present current research on […]

The effect of science comedy on perceptions of scientists and scientific messages. Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: Humor is an important conduit for public engagement with science that is often recommended for scientists looking to conduct communication activities despite relatively little empirical evidence demonstrating its effectiveness. […]

Laughing with science: The influence of audience approval on engagement. Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: While there is mounting evidence that humor can be an effective means of engaging publics, much remains to be learned about the contextual factors that shape how audiences receive […]

How attributes of humorous scientific messages predict engagement on Twitter and Instagram Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: The use of humor is increasingly advocated as a means of enhancing the effectiveness and visibility of science messages on social media. However, the influence of humorous scientific content […]

Understanding flu vaccination attitudes and behaviors: Exploring a measure of health decision-making preferences. Michael Cacciatore and Glen Nowak

Abstract: Annual influenza vaccination has been recommended for all adults in the United States since 2010, but coverage estimates indicate that less than half of American adults complied during the […]

Laughing with Science: The influence of audience approval on engagement Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: While there is mounting evidence that humor can be an effective means of engaging publics, much remains to be learned about the contextual factors that shape how audiences receive […]

Misinformation and public opinion of science and health: Approaches, findings, and future directions. Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: This work summarizes the misinformation literature in the context of science and health. The public opinion work in this space reveals inconsistencies in how the term has been defined […]

The landscape of mis(dis)information about science. Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: This presentation is a broad overview of the issue of misinformation as it relates to public understanding of science and the communication of scientific information with public audiences. The […]

Dissecting the Root of Vaccine Misinformation on Pinterest: A Content Analysis of Vaccine-Related Pins by Influential Social Media Accounts Michael Cacciatore and Yan Jin

Media Science and Practice Michael Cacciatore and Glen Nowak

Abstract: Given their influence and visibility, understanding how news media cover topics involving medicines and how they provide information to their target audiences is essential when it comes to medicinal […]

Otherization of Africa: How American media framed people with HIV/AIDS in Africa from 1987 to 2017. Michael Cacciatore and Ivanka Pjesivac Paper to be presented at the annual meeting of the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC), Washington, DC.

Abstract: This study examined otherization framing of people living with HIV/AIDS in Africa in American print news from 1987-2007. The results of a content analysis of a representative sample of […]

The 2014-15 U.S. measles outbreak and parents’ vaccination beliefs, confidence, and intentions Michael Cacciatore, Glen Nowak & Nathaniel J. Evans

Abstract: While it seems intuitive that highly visible vaccine-preventable disease outbreaks should impact perceptions of disease risk and facilitate vaccination, few empirical studies exist to confirm or dispel these beliefs. […]

Inadequate and incomplete: Chinese newspapers’ coverage of the first licensed human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in China Michael Cacciatore and Glen Nowak

Abstract: Glaxo Smith Kline’s Cervarix was the first human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine licensed for use in China in July 2016 and officially launched there on July 31, 2017. Since news […]

Is Facebook making us dumber? Exploring social media use as a predictor of political knowledge Michael Cacciatore

Abstract: With social networking site (SNS) use now ubiquitous in American culture, researchers have started paying attention to its effects in a variety of domains. This study explores the relationships […]

Teaching Specialties

Dr. Cacciatore has taught courses in research methodology, data analysis, risk communication, and social marketing, at both the graduate and undergraduate levels.

Experience

Dr. Cacciatore has extensive research experience, including work on several large-scale, National Science Foundation-funded research grants. He has presented research findings at major communication conferences, and has published reports for groups like the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Most recently, Dr. Cacciatore co-wrote a funded grant that will investigate humor effects in the context of science communication.

Nowak

About: Nowak is responsible for developing and managing the College’s new Center for Health and Risk Communication, which seeks to foster an interdisciplinary approach to health and risk-related Communication projects, including interventions, campaigns, messaging and messages, news media and provider-patient communication.

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Education

Dr. Nowak received his B.S. in 1982 from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, with majors in both economics and communications. He continued his studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, where he subsequently earned an M.A. degree in journalism (1987) and a Ph.D. in the field of mass communications (1990).

Experience

Glen Nowak has been the associate dean of research and graduate studies since August 2021. He is a professor of advertising and public relations and director of the Grady College’s Center for Health and Risk Communication. Prior to joining the Grady faculty in January 2013, he worked 14 years at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. He spent six years as director of media relations at CDC and six years as communications director for CDC’s National Immunization Program. He has experience in managing and implementing health and risk communications programs, media relations, health information campaigns and social marketing. Prior to joining CDC in January 1999, Dr. Nowak was an associate professor of advertising and communication at the Grady College of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Georgia. At Georgia, Dr. Nowak taught undergraduate and graduate courses in principles of advertising, communication and advertising research, communication and advertising management, social marketing, and health communications. In the course of his career, Dr. Nowak has authored or co-authored a number of peer-reviewed journal articles on communications practices, social marketing, and health communications, and conducted numerous workshops and trainings on health communication, social marketing, risk communication and media relations.

Proposal Title: “Improving Infectious Disease Models with Longitudinal Surveys of Health Decision Making Preferences and Influences.” Glen Nowak and Michael Cacciatore

What lessons can we learn from the Covid pandemic about how to communicate public health during a time of crisis? Glen Nowak

Glen Nowak was a guest on the Research Comms Podcast, a weekly podcast featuring interviews with “people who are doing inspiring, innovative work in the field of research communications.” The […]

Research Proposal: “[Creation of a] Southeastern Mountains-to-Ocean Vector-borne Disease Regional Center of Excellence at the University of Georgia.” Glen Nowak

A five-year, $9,987,040 proposal submitted to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). PI: Michael Yabsley, Professor, Warnell School of Forestry and Natural Resources, UGA. Co-PIs include Travis […]

Looking Ahead: Caregivers’ COVID-19 Vaccination Intention for Children 5 years old and younger Glen Nowak

Abstract: Little research has been conducted to examine parents’ intention to vaccinate their young children for COVID19. An online survey with a national U.S. sample of 682 primary caregivers of […]

Outbreak Risk Communication: The Role of the Media Glen Nowak

Abstract: As a result of the real and potential harm they bring, infectious disease outbreaks often attract, as well as benefit from, news media attention and coverage.Some infectious disease outbreaks, […]

Predictive Intelligence for Pandemic Prevention: Heterogeneous Model Integration for Infectious Disease Intelligence, Phase 1 Glen Nowak

Title: “Predictive Intelligence for Pandemic Prevention: Heterogeneous Model Integration for Infectious Disease Intelligence, Phase 1” Proposal submitted to the National Science Foundation, October 4, 2021. Proposal requested amount: $1,171,745 PI […]

Grant Proposal Submitted Glen Nowak

Title: Finding Ways to Prevent Salmonella Infections involving Birds and People: An Exploratory Assessment of Behavior, Microbiology, and Climactic Factors Proposal submitted in response to 2021 UGA Presidential Interdisciplinary Seed Grant […]

Do Young Adults Attend to Health Warnings in the First IQOS Advertisement in the U.S.? An Eye-Tracking Approach Glen Nowak and Joe Phua

Abstract: In October 2019, a heated tobacco product (HTP) IQOS debuted in the United States. This study examined young adults’ attention and cognitions in response to an IQOS ad that […]

Information Sharing and Communications Glen Nowak

Dr. Nowak served as an invited panelist to discuss information sharing and communication needs, strategies, and best practices to inform pandemic influenza preparedness and response.

American Communication Strategy for the COVID-19 Pandemic Glen Nowak

Dr. Nowak served as an invited panelist to discuss public health communication challenges and approaches used in the United States during the COVID-19 pandemic, including those involving vaccines and vaccination […]

Countering Vaccine Misinformation, Disinformation, and Mal-Information Glen Nowak

Dr. Nowak served as an invited panelist to discuss challenges and approaches to dealing with different types of vaccine misinformation. His comments focused on the importance of being able to […]

Getting to Yes: Vaccinating the Hesitant and Resistant Among Populations who Experience Health Disparities and Lower Vaccination Rates Glen Nowak and Alexander Pfeuffer

Abstract: Getting to Yes is a collaboration with The Tri-County Rural Health Network, UMAS, GSU, and UGA. The overall goal of this work will be to understand the drivers of the […]

Using Influenza Vaccination Location Data from the 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) to Expand COVID-19 Vaccination Coverage Glen Nowak

Victoria Fonzi, Kiran Thapa, Kishor Luitel, Heather Padilla, Curt Harris, M. Mahmud Khan, Glen Nowak and Janani Rajbhandari-Thapa, Using Influenza Vaccination Location Data from the 2018 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance […]

Do Young Adults Attend to Health Warnings in the First IQOS Advertisement in the U.S.? An Eye-Tracking Approach Joe Phua and Glen Nowak

Abstract: Introduction: In October 2019, a heated tobacco product (HTP) IQOS debuted in the United States. This study examined young adults’ attention and cognitions in response to an IQOS ad […]

Do Young Adults Attend to Health Warnings in the First IQOS Advertisement in the U.S.? An Eye-Tracking Approach Glen Nowak and Joe Phua

Abstract: Introduction: In October 2019, a heated tobacco product (HTP) IQOS debuted in the United States. This study examined young adults’ attention and cognitions in response to an IQOS ad […]

Do Young Adults Attend to Health Warnings in the First IQOS Advertisement in the U.S.? An Eye-Tracking Approach. Glen Nowak and Joe Phua

Abstract: Introduction: In October 2019, a heated tobacco product (HTP) IQOS debuted in the United States. This study examined young adults’ attention and cognitions in response to an IQOS ad […]

Communicating with the Public During a Public Health Emergency Glen Nowak

Glen Nowak is an invited panelist at the June 25-July 2 (virtual) annual meeting of the Society for Birth Defects Research and Prevention. The panel session on June 29 is […]

Adherence to Timely Vaccinations in the United States Glen Nowak

Hargreaves AL, Glen J. Nowak, Paula Frew, AR Hinman, WA Orenstein et al., “Adherence to Timely Vaccinations in the United States,” Pediatrics, 145(3, March 2020):e20190783. Abstract: We used 2014 National […]

An Assessment of Parents’ Childhood Immunization Beliefs, Intentions, and Behaviors Using a Smartphone Panel Glen Nowak

Boyle J., Berman L, Glen J. Nowak, Iachan R, Middleton D and Deng Y. “An Assessment of Parents’ Childhood Immunization Beliefs, Intentions, and Behaviors Using a Smartphone Panel,” Vaccine, 2020;38(10):2416-2423. […]

Glen Nowak is part of a $5 million five-year University of Georgia proposal submitted to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration Glen Nowak

Glen Nowak is part of a $5 million five-year University of Georgia proposal submitted to the U.S. Food & Drug Administration in response to a call for proposals to improve […]

UGA Transdisplinary Earth System Science for Global Solutions and Public Engagement (ENGAGE) Michael Cacciatore and Glen Nowak

Centers of Excellence for Influenza Research and Response (CIERR) Michael Cacciatore, Glen Nowak, Glenna Read, Bartosz Wojdynski & Itai Himelboim

Glen Nowak, Michael Cacciatore, Bart Wojdynski, Glenna Read, and Itai Himelboim are part of a University of Georgia proposal submitted in response to a National Institutes of Health call for […]

Understanding flu vaccination attitudes and behaviors: Exploring a measure of health decision-making preferences. Michael Cacciatore and Glen Nowak

Communication Challenges during Influenza Pandemics. Glen Nowak Rome, Italy, November 21, 2019

Abstract: Influenza pandemics have the potential to cause much illness and death and are thus a major focus of public health planning and preparation. As the influenza pandemic that took […]

Adherence to Timely Vaccinations in the United States. Glen Nowak

Abstract: To estimate 1) the proportion of children not adhering to the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) recommended early childhood immunization schedule and 2) associations between schedule adherence, sociodemographic […]

The Global Vaccine Action Plan – insights into its utility, application, and ways to strengthen future plans. Glen Nowak

Abstract: The pace of global progress must increase if the Global Vaccine Action Plan (GVAP) goals are to be achieved by 2020. We administered a two-phase survey to key immunization […]

Development of a measure to assess vaccine confidence among men who have sex with men. Glen Nowak

Abstract: Recent serogroup C meningococcal disease outbreaks led to meningococcal vaccine recommendations for Southern California men who have sex with men (MSM). Assessment of vaccine confidence is critical to improving […]

Development of a US trust measure to assess and monitor parental confidence in the vaccine system. Glen Nowak

Abstract: To develop a Vaccine Confidence Index (VCI) that is capable of detecting variations in parental confidence towards childhood immunizations centered on trust and concern issues that impact vaccine confidence. […]

Book Contract: Advancing Crisis Communication Effectiveness: Integrating Public Relations Scholarship with Practice Yan Jin, Glen Nowak & Bryan H. Reber

“Effectively addressing opioid drug use and misuse: Identifying the crisis and risk communications challenges and opportunities.” Glen Nowak The International Crisis and Risk Communication Conference, March 11-13, 2019, Orlando.

Abstract: The epidemic of opioid drug use and misuse in the United States and in many other continues unabated. Communicating to healthcare practitioners, the public, news media, and those legally […]

Pandemic influenza vaccines – Communication of benefits, risks, and uncertainties Glen Nowak

Abstract: Vaccines that would be recommended and offered in response to a novel influenza virus bring many communication challenges. This chapter identifies and describes some of the major issues that […]

Media Science and Practice Michael Cacciatore and Glen Nowak

“Communicating during an Outbreak or Public Health Investigation” Glen Nowak

Abstract: Epidemiologists and medical investigators deployed to disease outbreaks and public health investigations involving illness and deaths often need to communicate the journalists, local officials, and community members. This chapter […]

The 2014-15 U.S. measles outbreak and parents’ vaccination beliefs, confidence, and intentions Michael Cacciatore, Glen Nowak & Nathaniel J. Evans

Inadequate and incomplete: Chinese newspapers’ coverage of the first licensed human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in China Michael Cacciatore and Glen Nowak

Abstract: Glaxo Smith Kline’s Cervarix was the first human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine licensed for use in China in July 2016 and officially launched there on July 31, 2017. Since news […]

Ahn

About: Dr. Ahn teaches undergraduate-level research methods, graduate-level user experience research, communication theory, and advertising and society. Her research examines how social media, video/internet games, and immersive virtual environments influence user attitudes and behaviors. She also directs the Games and Virtual Environments Lab (GAVEL), and is the co-director of the new VERGE Lab.

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Education

Ph.D., Communication, Stanford University
M.A., Communication, Stanford University
B.A., Communication/Business Administration, Seoul National University

Research Interests and Activities

Dr. Ahn is the director of the Games and Virtual Environments Lab and the co-director of the VERGE Lab. Her main program of research investigates how interactive digital media transform traditional rules of communication and social interactions, looking at how virtual experiences shape the way the way that people think, feel, and behave in the physical world. Her work has helped establish foundations for the theoretical advancement of virtual experiences in mediated environments and how their effects transfer into the physical world in four different contexts: health, consumer psychology, conservation, and education. Her ongoing work includes a NSF funded project exploring the application of virtual agents to promote STEM learning for children in informal learning environments, such as children’s museums. Her work has been published in a number of flagship outlets, including Journal of Advertising, Journal of Computer-Mediated Communication, Communication Research, Journal of Health Communication, Human-Computer Interaction, and Media Psychology.

Virtual Reality Experience in Tourism Advertising: Roles of Immersion and Advertising Engagement Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn and Jooyoung Kim

Jihoon Kim (Grady PhD alum), Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn, and Jooyoung Kim. “Virtual Reality Experience in Tourism Advertising: Roles of Immersion and Advertising Engagement.” Presented at the American Academy of Advertising (AAA) Annual Conference, […]

Pandemic Soundstage: Policy and Reality in Hollywood’s Return to Work Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn and Jooyoung Kim

Kate Fortmueller (2022). “Pandemic Soundstage: Policy and Reality in Hollywood’s Return to Work” Essential: Global Film and Television Production During the Pandemic. April 9-11. Tulane University. New Orleans, LA. https://express.adobe.com/page/ZPOFOt9Mwpd9x/ Abstract: […]

Advertising in the Metaverse Jooyoung Kim and Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Jooyoung Kim (March 24). Advertising in the Metaverse. Panelist at the half-day American of Academy of Advertising pre-conference, which was designed and led by Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn.

International Conference Association (ICA) Top Paper Award Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

International Conference Association (ICA) “Top Paper Award: Haley Hatfield and Grace Ahn’s paper “Do Black Lives Matter in the Empathy Machine? Investigating Whiteness and Immersion on Creating a Shared Reality […]

Do Black Lives Matter in the Empathy Machine? Investigating Whiteness and Immersion on Creating a Shared Reality with 360-Degree Video Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Abstract: The summer of 2020 brought increased participation and support for the Black Lives Matter (BLM) movement following accounts of police use of lethal force toward Black citizens. As protests […]

Virtual Reality Experience in Tourism Advertising: Roles of Immersion and Advertising Engagement Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn and Jihoon (Jay) Kim

Abstract: Building favorable destination image and evoking positive feelings toward tourism ads are essential to the success of destination marketing in the competitive tourism business environment. The current study investigated […]

A second chance to protect yourself and others: The impact of interactivity and efficacy messages on influenza vaccination intentions in virtual reality Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn and Jooyoung Kim

Lee, Joomi (Grady postdoctoral research associate), Ahn, Sun Joo (Grace), Wu, D., Lin, J.-H., & Kim, Jooyoung. (2021). A second chance to protect yourself and others: The impact of interactivity and efficacy messages […]

IEEEVR2020: Exploring the first steps toward standalone virtual conferences Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Abstract: The global COVID-19 pandemic forced all large in-person events to pivot to virtual or online platforms. IEEEVR2020 coincided with rising concerns and restrictions on travel and large gatherings, becoming […]

Academic caregivers on organizational and community resilience in academia (F*** individual resilience). Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Abstract: Crises, whether society-wide or personal, are endemic to the human condition. Yet academia and its associated institutions persist in having insufficient scaffolding to support its members during periods of crisis. No one […]

Open science, closed doors? Countering marginalization through an agenda for ethical, inclusive research in Communication Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Abstract: The open science (OS) movement has advocated for increased transparency in certain aspects of research. Communication is taking its first steps towards OS as some journals have adopted OS […]

Virtual tours promote behavioral intention and willingness to pay via spatial presence, enjoyment, and destination image Jihoon (Jay) Kim and Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Abstract: Virtual reality (VR) tourism provides individuals with a brief, but realistic, preview of travel destinations. Despite the increasing popularity of VR tourism in destination advertising, outcomes and underlying mechanisms of […]

Embodied congruence as a framework for understanding user experiences with immersive technologies Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Smink, Anne R. (former Grady visiting doctoral student), Hahn, Lindsay (former Grady postdoctoral research associate), Trude, Bryan (Grady doctoral student), & Ahn, Sun Joo (Grace) (2021). Embodied congruence as a framework for understanding user experiences with immersive […]

onfronting whiteness through virtual humans: A systematic review of 20 years of research in prejudice and racial bias using virtual environments Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Hatfield, Haley (Grady doctoral student), Ahn, Sun Joo (Grace), Klein, Matthew (Grady doctoral student), & Nowak, K. N. (2021). Confronting whiteness through virtual humans: A systematic review of 20 years of research in prejudice […]

Salient, Interactive, Relevant, Confidence, and Action (SIRCA): Using Virtual Reality Storm Surge Simulations to Increase Risk Perception and Prevention Behaviors. Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

PIs and Co-PIs: Matthew Browning (Multiple PI, Clemson University), Jill Gambill (Co-PI, University of Georgia) Funding Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Association (NOAA) Total Amount: $499,931 Project period: 2 years […]

Interactive virtual reality reduces quadriceps pain intensity during high-intensity interval leg cycling exercise. Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Poster presented at the World Congress of Pain of the International Association for the Study of Pain, September 12-16, Boston, MA.

Virtual reality in clinical pathology: A comparison of efficacy, student perceptions and motivation with traditional teaching modalities Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn Read More

Book Chapter: Gaming and behavior change Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Abstract: This chapter explores how video games interact with individual characteristics to afford unique opportunities for behavior change. It first considers how video games differ from traditional media, and more […]

Book Chapter: Designing for persuasion through embodied experiences in immersive virtual environments Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Abstract: Embodied experiences in virtual reality (VR) involves the reproduction of sufficiently realistic sensory information so that users are able to see, hear, and feel experiences as if they are […]

Feeling the weight of calories: Using haptic feedback as virtual exemplars to promote risk perception among young females on unhealthy snack choices Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn and Jung Min Hahm

Abstract: Virtual simulations allow users to feel and manipulate objects as they would in the physical world. Guided by exemplification theory and risk communication research, a virtual exemplar was developed […]

Is desirability of the trait a boundary condition of the Proteus effect? A pilot study. Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Abstract: Although previous research has shown that individuals take on aspects of the avatars they embody in virtual environments, studies have not yet tested whether this phenomenon, known as the […]

Points-based reward systems in gamification impact children’s physical activity strategies and psychological needs Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Abstract: Gamification is an increasingly popular form of health intervention but its efficacy remains elusive due to a lack of clarity in its conceptualization and operationalization. This study aimed to […]

Virtual exemplars in health promotion campaigns: Heightening perceived risk and involvement to reduce soft drink consumption in young adults. Sun Joo (Grace) Ahn

Abstract: Virtual simulations allow individuals to concretely view future negative health consequences of present dietary choices. Integrating exemplification theory with risk communication research, the effect of using virtual simulations to […]

Teaching Specialties

Dr. Ahn’s teaching specialties include advertising research, user experience research, advertising society, communication theory, media processes and effects, digital media technology, and communication and children.

Experience

Prior to obtaining her Ph.D. degree, Dr. Ahn worked as the Assistant Manager of the Survey & Research Division for the Korea Foundation for Asian Culture Exchange under the Korean Ministry of Culture & Tourism. She also worked as an interpreter and translator at the Korean Ministry of Finance & Economy and holds over a decade’s experience in interpretation and translation as a freelancer.

Awards and Fellowships

2019: AEJMC Krieghbaum Under-40 Award
2019: University of Georgia Office of Instruction First-Year Odyssey Teaching Award
2017: University of Georgia Charles B. Knapp Early Career Scholar Award
2017: AEJMC Emerging Scholar Grant
2017: Department of Advertising and Public Relations, Outstanding Teacher Award nominee
2015: Mary Alice Shaver Promising Professor Award, American Academy of Advertising
2015: Top Paper/Poster in the Health Communication Division, International Communication Association
2014: Top Paper in the Communication and Technology Division, International Communication Association
2014: Best Paper at IEEE VR 2014 Conference
2014: University of Georgia’s Superstar Researcher Recognition, Office of the Provost
2014: University of Georgia Career Center Faculty Recognition for high impact on student career development
2013: University of Georgia, Office of the Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost, Faculty Summer Support ($5,000)
2009: Top Paper Award in the Nonverbal Communication Division, National Communication Association

Springston

About
Dr. Springston teaches public relations, media and health, and research methods. Research foci include health and risk communications.

View Curriculum Vitae

Education

Ph.D., Organizational Communication, The Ohio State University

M.A., Organizational Communication, California State University

B.A., Communication, Colorado State University

Research Interests and Activities

Dr. Springston’s research interests are public relations, health promotion, and emerging communication technologies. His work is published in a variety of leading journals and scholarly publications, including the Journal of Applied Communication Research, Cancer Detection and Prevention, Journal of the Health and Human Services Administration, Handbook of Health Communication, Handbook of Public Relations, Health Communication, Journal of Public Relations Research, International Journal of Behavioral Medicine, International Journal of Intercultural Research, Journalism and Mass Communication Quarterly, Public Relations Review, Journal of Psychosocial Oncology, and Small Group Research.

Teaching Specialties

Public relations management, public relations research, and public relations campaigns. Dr. Springston is a member of the UGA Graduate Faculty.

Experience

Dr. Springston is a past chair of the Public Relations Division of the National Communication Association. He was accredited by the Public Relations Society of America in 1995. He was co-founder of the PRFORUM, an international public relations Internet discussion list. Previously he worked in the public relations department of Public Service Company of Colorado, and as news director at KDGO Radio, Durango, Colorado. He has served as a consultant and/or trainer to Clayton County Public Schools, Communico, Dupont, Hancock Memorial Hospital, McDonalds, and Midwest Natural Gas Association. He previously taught at Indiana University.

Grants

National Cancer Institute, “Increasing Colorectal and Breast Cancer Screening in Women,” 1R01 CA136940-01A2 ($3.3 million), 2010-2015.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

‪National Cancer Institute, “Promoting Colon Cancer Screening Among African Americans,” 1R01 CA115983-01A1 ($2.4 million), 2006-2011.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

‪Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Southeast Center on Communication, Health and Poverty,” P0-1, 58-1353149 ($3.5 million), 2005-2008.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

‪National Cancer Institute and the National Institute of Nursing Research, “Promoting Breast Cancer Screening via Computer v. Phone,” 1R01 NR008434-01A2 ($3.1 million), 2004-2009.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

‪Georgia Cancer Coalition. “Cancer Prevention and Intervention Through Community Pharmacists,” ($196,000), 2004-2005.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

‪National Cancer Institute, “Community Intervention to Increase Mammography Screening,” RO1 CA77736-01 ($1.4 million), 1999-2004.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

‪Walther Cancer Institute, “Breast Cancer Screening Among Low-Income African American Women: A Tailored Computer-Assisted Instruction Approach,” ($23,000), 1996-1997.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

‪National Cancer Institute, “Interventions for Breast Cancer Screening Behaviors,” R01-35-6001673 ($1.4 million), 1994-1998.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬