Research & Scholarship

I have a passion for the field of Communication because of the great value of research and contributions to developing an understanding of human behavior and conditions. Communication research is exciting and there exist many types of concentrations to focus on. While the primary focus of this web site is to serve as a portal, here are some of my research interests.

My interests include examining online groups, media subjectivity/media richness, social support groups, eHealth and new media.

Past Projects

• M.A. thesis entitled "Understanding Communication Processes within a Private, Computer-Mediated Social Support Group"; defended June, 2009.
• A rhetorical analysis of fantasy imagery and text-based content present in pro-eating disorder (ED) web sites. This research identifies fantasy content as both a contemporary trend as well as being rooted in historical developments (special attention being given to Victorian-era content; e.g. Talairach-Vielmas, 2007). Project presented at the OSCLG Conference in October, 2008.
• Identity and self-representation of web professionals on the Internet. Specifically, the gender gap between men and women professionals is identified and analyzed, focusing on a select set of female professionals. Rooted in Giddens' (1976, 1984) Structuration theory, the method for this research began with a content analytic approach by coding categories based on criteria present within given web sites. Upon numerous revisions, this project developed into qualitative work that seeks to uncover individual identity and open dialogue for professionals. Project presented at the OSCLG Conference in October, 2008.
• I helped with the "Show Us Your Heart" campaign for Purdue University/Gift of Life Michigan, working on art and graphics. I initially developed prototype designs, based on my own design style and previously successful designs used in other campaigns, the designs went from prototype to actual development acting as visual representation in the campaign. This intense work required a multitude of concepts customized for certain demographics within the state of Michigan. Designs focused on research-driven concepts for a variety of media: print posters, counter mats, clerk cards, mini-posters, and billboards that are present throughout several parts of Michigan.