Karen is not only a professor here at Idaho State University, but she is also our Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR)!
Her education includes a BA in Communication Studies from Furman University, a MA Speech Communication from University of South Carolina and a PhD, Rhetoric and Public Address from Louisiana State University. Karen's emphasis is in corporate communication, public relations, and sport communication.
Her courses taught include:
- COMM1101: Public Speaking
- CMP1110: Media Writing
- CMP2241: Introduction to Public Relations
- CMP3346: Public Relations Writing
- CMP3347: Sport Communication
- CMP4446: Public Relations Campaigns
- CMP4440: Sport Public Relations
- CMP6630: Crisis Communication
She teaches eight different courses in our department that largely include the courses in the public relations curriculum, as well as a sport communication elective and a graduate seminar on crisis communication. One of her favorite things about teaching is seeing the transformation within students when they move a topic from a mere curiosity to something that becomes inspirational and fulfilling in their lives.
As a FAR Representative
The FAR's three main responsibilities include serving as a liaison between faculty and athletics, advocating on behalf of student-athlete welfare, and compliance. If you have any concerns about student-athletes in your class, she can help. Sometimes there are issues with travel, missed class, or academic performance and she can point you to the right support service or answer questions.
Her "Three Ts to Remember"
- TALK: Talk to your professors
Introduce yourself, tell them about yourself, and talk about the class. Even if you don’t think you have much to say, introducing yourself creates a relationship with the professor and will make it easier when you have questions or need help.
- TRAVEL: Be aware of the travel policy.
Faculty need to know that you’re missing class 48 hours before you travel. Always let your professor know when you’re going to miss class for a competition – and, if needed, remind them so you’re both on the same page.
- TURN-IN: Always submit an assignment.
Do you know what can destroy your grade? Getting a zero! It’s almost impossible to successfully recover from a zero by not submitting an assignment. Even if you get a later start on an assignment than you planned, turn something in. Getting a 50% is better and easier to recover from than a zero. So always turn assignments in – even if you get started late!
Go by and introduce yourself, say hello, ask for advice, or let her know how she can improve the student-athlete experience. Her office is in Frazier 221! Never hesitate to reach out.
