Name: Katharine Hubbard, PHD, MFA
Title: Assistant Professor of Mass Communication
Education: Ph.D. University of Texas at Austin, College of Communications
M.F.A. Academy of Art University, School of Advertising
B.S. University of Nebraska at Kearney, Department of Communication
Office: Johnson 214
E-mail: hubbardka@winthrop.edu
Areas(s) – Diversity and Cultural Competency, Strategic Communication, Social Media, Advertising, and Public Relations
Website – 1763media.org
Dr. Katharine Hubbard is a dedicated educator and researcher passionate about diversity, cultural competence, and innovative teaching methods. They bring a wealth of experience from both the academic and professional worlds to their role as an instructor of integrated communication at Winthrop University. Before joining Winthrop, Dr. Hubbard taught at The University of Texas at Austin, SUNY Buffalo State, and Sam Houston State University.
As an experienced teacher, Dr. Hubbard's expertise is grounded in real-world experience. Their professional background includes experience as a copywriter and behavioral designer at advertising agencies, where they worked on campaigns for clients such as the Nebraska Tourism Commission, Nebraska Game and Parks, AT&T, and Black People Meet. This practical background informs their dynamic approach to teaching integrated communication.
Dr. Hubbard’s teaching philosophy centers on active learning and project-based initiatives that bridge academic theory with real-world application. Students collaborate with local nonprofits and organizations in their dynamic classroom environment on real-world projects. By developing strategic communication plans that address genuine community needs, students gain invaluable experience and cultivate a deeper understanding of communication's power to create positive social impact. This hands-on approach reinforces theoretical concepts and empowers students to become engaged and ethical communicators.
Dr. Hubbard's research explores the critical intersection of diversity and cultural competence, such as examining community-engaged scholarship to understand how trust is established and maintained in diverse settings, investigating the historical and cultural significance of advertising ephemera in America, analyzing the portrayal of Asian Americans in advertising over time to reveal trends and insights into representation, and exploring information-seeking behaviors related to COVID-19 boosters in China.
Committed to staying at the forefront of their field, Dr. Hubbard actively participates in workshops and training programs focused on inclusion, diversity, accessibility, and mental health. They also stay up to date with engaging teaching practices and the integration of AI in higher education. Their commitment to teaching excellence is evident through their completion of several ACUE programs and involvement in various learning communities on topics such as engaged learning, community-engaged scholarship, and implementing alternative grading practices. Dr. Hubbard’s dedication to continuous learning ensures that their teaching remains relevant, engaging, and impactful.
Outside of their academic pursuits, Dr. Hubbard enjoys a variety of creative hobbies, including improv, aerial acrobatics, and baking.
Recent Publications & Presentations: