Communication Studies at the University of Kansas

10/20/2026

“Trying to get them [students] engaged and excited about their futures is really just a joy. It’s something that gives my work deep meaning.” – Dr. Angela Gist-Mackey

Our students are so lucky to learn from Dr. Gist-Mackey, who describes teaching as her “calling.” Watch the full video to learn more about her teaching philosophy and what inspires her work in the classroom.

Learn more about Angela Gist-Mackey, a 2026 recipient of the Willia...

10/19/2026

“Learning from each other, asking questions, brainstorming about things in the world that are important is such a significant part of teaching students that they not only have a voice, but that how they communicate and what they choose to communicate about can be a really important part of making the world a better place.” - Dr. Meggie Mapes

Just as the squirrels are lucky to have found their way into her backyard, we’re incredibly lucky to have Dr. Mapes in our department. Check out the full video to learn more about her approach to teaching and how she helps KU students find their voices.

Learn more about Meggie Mapes, a 2026 recipient of the William T. K...

10/14/2026

10/14/2026

On October 13, both Dr. Meggie Mapes and Dr. Angela Gist-Mackey were recognized as recipients of the William T. Kemper Teaching Fellowship at the University of Kansas Teaching Awards Ceremony. KU COMS couldn't be prouder to have not one, but two faculty members recognized for excellence in teaching at last night's ceremony. Bravo!

10/12/2026

Publication Alert! 🚨 KU COMS Ph.D. Candidate Umar Ajetunmobi is the lead author of a new publication titled "Language, health, and the unseen: communication accommodation strategies in Nigerian Ruqyah culture."

Communication accommodation theory (CAT) has been widely applied to interpersonal, intergroup, and healthcare communication, yet little is known about its relevance in transcendental health context...

10/12/2026

This past weekend, a van full of KU COMS Jayhawks traveled to the University of Colorado Boulder for the 2026 Organizational Communication Mini-Conference. Doctoral Candidate, Anna Jewell, presented her dissertation prospectus. Wenrong Casper Cui, Omolola Lasisi, and Saiemeh Wahidi met top scholars while networking, and Dr. Cameron Piercy and Dr. Angela Gist-Mackey served as friendly questioners to candidates on the job market. Shout-out to the co-hosts, the University of Colorado and Colorado State University, for hosting. We are all excited to attend OCMC in 2027 when COMS at KU will travel to UK (University of Kentucky)!

10/09/2026

For those attending the National Communication Association (NCA) Annual Convention in New Orleans, we hope you’ll join us for the KU COMS Reception on Friday, November 20, from 7–9 p.m.

09/29/2026

Join us next Tuesday, October 6, at 4:00 p.m. at the Kansas Union in Alderson Auditorium for the second colloquium of the fall semester! We’re excited to welcome Dr. Katherine Ognyanova, who will present: “What Do You Believe? Trust in Institutions, People, and AI”

09/23/2026

How does communication shape the everyday experience and management of chronic illness? KU COMS faculty member Rikki Roscoe will explore this question in her talk this Friday (9/25) at the KU Social Psychology Proseminar, from 4:00–5:15 p.m. in Fraser Hall, Room 547.

09/16/2026

KU Debate is running its Annual Heritage Fund Campaign! Please consider supporting our unmatched program and helping sustain the tradition of excellence that has made KU Debate the nation’s No. 1 debate program.

The University of Kansas Debate Team has a long-standing heritage as one of the most successful academic programs at KU with a legacy that parallels the success of KU Men's Basketball. At the National Debate Tournament (NDT), the KU Debate Team has: Won 6 National Championships. Reached 22 Final Fou...