Elizabeth J. Nelson

Education:
Ph. D.: University of Iowa, Communication Studies, 1988
Master of Arts: University of Wisconsin, Madison, Communication Arts, 1981
Undergraduate – Bachelor of Arts: University of California, Berkeley, Rhetoric, 1978

Personal Statement:
I am interested in the nexus of communication and influence. Under that very large theoretical umbrella, I explore political communication, popular culture, self-help literature and religious discourse, just to name a few. My most recent work has been on the mass selling of beauty technology in general and plastic surgery in particular to American viewers (mostly women) in the form of reality programming such as The Swan and Extreme Makeover. As Chair of the Communication Department I don’t have a lot of time for extra-curricular activities. But I have enjoyed performing in several Gilbert and Sullivan comic operas at Renegade Comedy Theatre. I also enjoy quilting, gardening, reading, playing my guitar, singing, and going to the movies.

Courses Taught:
Public Speaking
Media and Society
Analysis of Public Discourse
Rhetorical Criticism
Persuasion and Argumentation in Public Speaking
Ethics in Human Communication
Communication and Body Image
History of Rhetoric
Leadership and Gender

Awards/Recognitions:
CLA Outstanding Teacher of the year (1992);
American Cancer Society Employer of the Year, (2002)

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