Andrew Pyle

Dr. Andrew Pyle is an Associate Professor and Undergraduate Coordinator in the Department of Communication within Clemson University's College of Behavioral, Social and Health Sciences. He teaches a comprehensive range of courses including Public Relations, Crisis Communication, and Intercultural Communication across both undergraduate and graduate programs.

His educational background includes:

• Ph.D. in Communication from George Mason University (2014)
• M.A. in Applied Communication from University of Arkansas at Little Rock (2011)
• B.A. in Communication Studies and Russian Language from Ouachita Baptist University (2009)

Dr. Pyle's research centers on the intersection of crisis communication and intercultural communication, with particular emphasis on organizational use of social media during emergencies. He has recently pioneered research in productivity, time management, and 'Deep Work' concepts, developing HON 2070 Deep Work—a course exploring productivity frameworks that gained significant relevance during the 2020 pandemic. His teaching portfolio spans foundational courses like COMM 2010 Introduction to Communication to advanced seminars including COMM 8560 Trends in Public Relations Research & Theory.

Analysis of his publication record reveals a consistent research trajectory examining crisis communication during natural disasters (particularly hurricanes), organizational responses to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the role of digital platforms in emergency information dissemination. His work bridges theoretical communication frameworks with practical applications in high-stakes situations, demonstrating particular expertise in how information flows during crisis events.

Dr. Pyle's scholarly contributions have been recognized through numerous awards:

• 2025 Clemson Honors College: National Scholars Program Award of Distinction for Mentorship
• 2024 Clemson Honors College: National Scholars Program Award of Distinction for Mentorship
• 2021-2022 Clemson Honors College Bradbury Award
• 2019-2020 Faculty Senator of the Year Award
• 2019 CBSHS Award for Excellence in Service/Outreach
• 2018 'Best Professor' at Clemson, Tiger Newspaper 'Best of Clemson'

As an active member of the National Communication Association, Southern States Communication Association, and Public Relations Society of America, Dr. Pyle maintains strong professional networks that enhance his research impact. His mentorship of Honors College students has received particular recognition, with multiple awards for his guidance of National Scholars. The Deep Work student projects showcase his innovative approach to teaching and student engagement, with participants documenting significant improvements in productivity and time management practices.

Though not leading a formal research lab, Dr. Pyle has cultivated a productive research environment through his Deep Work course and collaborative projects. His extensive co-authorship with researchers like R. Patrick Fuller, Hilary Smith, and Robert R. Ulmer demonstrates a team-based approach to advancing crisis communication scholarship.