Brian Klebig

Brian Klebig is a Professor in the Department of Communication at Bethany Lutheran College, where he conducts research in media psychology, focusing on moral intuitions, entertainment, and XR technology with associated behavioral outcomes. He also serves as an adjunct faculty member at Bethany Lutheran Theological Seminary, teaching Communication and occasionally Homiletics.

His research interests center on the psychological and behavioral impacts of media, particularly through emerging technologies like XR. He has contributed over 25 journal articles and has been recognized through an NSF grant for his scholarly work. His engagement extends to academic service, including organizing the annual Meaningful XR Conference and serving as guest editor for the Journal of Media Psychology.

Brian's academic contributions are complemented by his teaching across a broad range of courses, including Fundamentals of Speech, Rhetorical Traditions, Media Ecology, and Communication Theory. He also supervises internships and independent studies, integrating experiential learning into his pedagogy.

Notable recognitions include:

• NSF grant recipient

He has played a key role in advancing XR research in communication through conference organization and editorial work. While no specific grants beyond the NSF are detailed, his leadership in the Meaningful XR Conference indicates sustained project coordination and academic collaboration. He is actively involved in both undergraduate and theological education, bridging communication science with religious instruction.

Brian is affiliated with Bethany Lutheran College and Bethany Lutheran Theological Seminary, contributing to interdisciplinary academic initiatives, particularly in the integration of technology and communication in educational and spiritual contexts.