Cynthia Irizarry

Cynthia Irizarry serves as Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director in the Department of Communication & Journalism at Suffolk University, where she has held faculty positions since 2009 after previously teaching at Stetson University. Her industry background includes public relations roles at Ford Motor Company and Detroit's Department of Parks and Recreation.

Her academic credentials include:

• PhD from University of Nebraska
• MA from Wayne State University
• BA from Wayne State University

Professor Irizarry's research program investigates healthcare communication systems with emphasis on stakeholder engagement through digital channels. She examines how hospitals implement eHealth initiatives, manage diversity in clinical settings, and design patient-centered websites to build trust. Her work bridges organizational communication theory with practical healthcare applications.

Key research dimensions include:

• eHealth adoption barriers
• Gender dynamics in medical practices
• Cultural competence in hospital communications
• Trust-building through digital interfaces
• Stakeholder communication strategies
• Health literacy considerations

Her publications from 2006-2010 reveal consistent focus on qualitative analysis of healthcare communication environments, particularly how digital transformation affects patient-provider relationships and organizational effectiveness in medical institutions.

Professional recognition includes:

• University of Nebraska Doctoral Research Fellowship
• President of Florida Communication Association
• Nomination for Suffolk University CAS Teacher of the Year
• Multiple graduate assistantships during doctoral studies

She actively contributes to public health through consulting services for the CDC Foundation, National Kidney Foundation, and American Cancer Society, developing communication campaigns for vitamin promotion, disease prevention, and health equity initiatives while serving as editorial reviewer for multiple academic journals.