Kyle Heim

Dr. Kyle Heim serves as Associate Professor and Graduate Program Coordinator in the Communication, Journalism and Media Department at Shippensburg University, where he has taught since fall 2015. A former journalist with 15 years of experience at major newspapers including the Chicago Tribune and Minneapolis Star Tribune, he brings professional expertise to his academic role while advising the next generation of communication professionals.

His educational credentials include:

• Doctor of Philosophy in Journalism from the University of Missouri, Columbia
• Master of Science in Journalism from Northwestern University, Evanston
• Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Macalester College, St. Paul

Dr. Heim's research critically examines journalism's digital transformation, with concentrated focus on social media's impact on news gathering and reporting. His work analyzes how platforms like Twitter reshape source diversity, challenge traditional verification processes, and redefine transparency standards in contemporary journalism. This research bridges theoretical frameworks with practical industry applications, addressing core challenges in maintaining journalistic integrity amid technological disruption.

His publication timeline (2018-2022) reveals consistent investigation into Twitter's integration into news workflows, tracking adoption patterns from 2009-2016. These studies collectively demonstrate evolving source practices, highlight tensions between speed and accuracy in social media sourcing, and document institutional adaptations to participatory media environments across major news organizations.

Recognition for his scholarly contributions includes:

• Top faculty research paper award from AEJMC's Newspaper and Online News Division (2018)
• Shippensburg University Presidential Faculty Development Grant (2017-18)
• AEJMC/Scripps Howard Foundation Visiting Professor in Social Media Grant (2014)

Through grant-funded research and student mentorship, Dr. Heim actively explores social media's role in modern journalism education. His AEJMC/Scripps Howard grant specifically advanced curriculum development around social media strategy, while his Presidential Faculty Development Grant supported empirical research on digital news practices. His teaching portfolio spans foundational courses like Media Literacy and advanced graduate seminars in Social Media Analytics, reflecting his commitment to preparing students for journalism's rapidly evolving landscape.