Department of Speech Communication

OUR MISSION

The Department of Speech Communication believes that lives in the public and private spheres are enhanced when communication is clear, practical, appropriate and generative.  Valuing academic rigor, the Department embodies the teacher/scholar model which focuses on enhancing communication competence and adaptability, both of which are critical components of a diverse society.  Students/citizens completing Speech Communication coursework emerge as able, ethical and resourceful communicators.

OUR VALUES

The following five principles guide our work:

Student-Centered Approach

We are dedicated to cultivating reflective, informed, competent, and resourceful communicators capable of improving individual, community, and organizational life.

Scholarship

We are committed to developing and maintaining a teaching curriculum that is theoretical, heuristic and practical.  We value research and scholarship that advance the knowledge of the speech communication discipline.

Service

We are devoted to maintaining an integral position in general education, while providing specialized instruction for our speech communication majors.

Collegiality

We are inspired to further develop and maintain our department’s culture, which is an atmosphere that is accepting, diverse, collegial, and service-oriented. We are committed to reaching across disciplines and establishing relationships with other colleagues.  These collaborations foster a rich learning environment for our students and provide them with a comprehensive, multidisciplinary education.

Excellence

We are motivated to model excellence, professionalism, and integrity in our teaching, research, and service.