James Talerico

James Talerico serves as a Lecturer in the Communication Department of the Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences at the University of Pittsburgh. Appointed to a full-time position in 2022 after seven years as an adjunct professor, he teaches Written Professional Communication, Public Speaking, and Media Relations across Pitt's Dietrich School and College of General Studies.

His academic credentials include a Master of Arts in Communications from Wheaton College and a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and Speech from Duquesne University, reflecting his dual foundation in media theory and practical communication.

Talerico's pedagogical philosophy centers on critical thinking and human-centered communication, arguing that AI writing tools cannot replace the cultural and intellectual depth of authentic human expression. His research interests span Professional Communication, Public Speaking, Media Relations, Rhetoric, Journalism, and Speech Communication, informed by two decades of industry experience.

Professional recognition includes:

• Outstanding Adjunct Professor of the Year at Robert Morris University (2015)

Prior to academia, Talerico built a distinguished career as a reporter for The Pittsburgh Press and The Business Business Times, followed by television news reporting and executive roles in corporate communications, including Director of Global Communications for Marconi's IT Division.