Clarissa S. Beyah

Clarissa S. Beyah is a Professor of Professional Practice of Journalism at the University of Southern California's Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. She concurrently serves as Chief Communications Officer for Union Pacific Railroad. Her expertise spans global communication leadership across healthcare, technology, transportation, and utilities sectors. Beyah founded Writer’s Block Ink, a nonprofit empowering at-risk youth through the arts, which has impacted over 1,000 youth since 2006.

• Affiliations: Center for Public Relations Board Member
• Educational Background: BA in English (Rowan University), MBA in Strategic Management (University of New Haven)

Research interests include civic engagement, media industries, and organizational communication networks. Her work bridges strategic communication with social justice through initiatives like Writer’s Block’s productions addressing domestic abuse and genocide awareness.

Course instruction focuses on strategic PR fundamentals, directed research, and advertising strategy. Professional experience includes leadership roles at Fortune 50 companies such as GE, Pfizer, and Aon, overseeing teams globally.