Colter D Ray

Colter D Ray is an Assistant Professor in the Communication Department at The University of Tampa. He serves as Director of the Communication and Speech Studies Program and focuses on interpersonal communication, health communication, and mixed-methods research. His work explores cancer support communication and loneliness mitigation strategies.

• Education: PhD (Arizona State University, 2018), M.A. & B.A. (Texas State University, 2011 & 2014), Graduate Certificate in Corporate Communication and Training (Texas State University, 2014)

Ray's research examines:

• Dark side of communication after cancer diagnosis
• Supportive communication strategies
• Loneliness and social connection mechanisms
• Mixed-methods approaches combining experiments, surveys, and interviews

His recent publications emphasize therapeutic interventions for loneliness and communication barriers in cancer care. Awards include multiple recognitions from Western States Communication Association and university-level honors at Arizona State and Texas State Universities.

• Key scientific awards: Knowledge Mobilization Impact Award (2017), Outstanding Graduate Researcher (2017-2018)

Ray actively engages with b-Present, a non-profit supporting young adult cancer patients, through workshops and material testing. Contact: cray@ut.edu | Office: Jenkins Technology Building, Tampa, FL