Jaye L. Atkinson

Jaye L. Atkinson is Chair of the Department of Communication at Georgia State University and an affiliate faculty member with the Gerontology Institute. Her work bridges communication studies and aging research, focusing on age stereotypes and their impact on interpersonal and media discourse.

• Ph.D. in Communication, University of Kansas, 1996
• M.A. in Communication, University of Kansas, 1993
• B.A. in Communication, Miami University, 1990

Dr. Atkinson’s research examines how communication perpetuates or challenges age stereotypes (e.g., ‘senior moment’) and explores mediated portrayals of older adults in media, advertising, and sports. Her recent work includes a book project analyzing ageist language across media formats.

Her 15 most recent publications (up to 2017-2009) highlight trends in ageism in sports media, global aging perspectives in advertising, and discourse patterns in intergenerational relationships. She has also studied Disney’s representation of older characters and the intersection of age and race stereotypes.

Scientific Awards & Grants:

• Gerontology Institute’s Distinguished Faculty Award (2006)
• Victor W. Marshall Fellows in Applied Gerontology (2019)
• 50 over 50 Gerontology Scholars (2023-2024)
• GSU Humanities Research Center Fellowship (2024-2025)
• Internal GSU Research Equipment Grant (2006-2007)
• GSU Research Initiation Grant (2005-2006)

Dr. Atkinson led the Department of Communication through Academic Program review, co-created the MA in Digital Media Strategies, and chaired the NCA Communication and Aging Division. Her grants and leadership roles reflect her commitment to advancing gerontological research and academic infrastructure.