Brian SmithView profile
Professor
Brian Smith is a Chair and Professor of Integrated Marketing Communications at the University of Mississippi , where he focuses on the intersection of public relations, social media, and strategic communication. His work emphasizes crisis communication, digital engagement, and the evolving role of practitioners in integrated environments. Education B.A. in Humanities, Brigham Young University (2001) M.A. in International Relations, Brigham Young University (2001) Ph.D. in Communications, University of Maryland-College Park (2009) Brian’s research spans social media dynamics, influencer marketing, and communication integration. He investigates how organizations navigate crises through digital interactivity, develops frameworks for empowering marginalized populations, and explores AI’s impact on communication practices. His recent publications highlight trends in digital advocacy , strategic empowerment , and technology-driven communication . Articles from 2025 examine citizen science approaches, AI ethics, and interviewer protocols for vulnerable groups, while earlier works establish theoretical foundations for integrated communication and PR’s expanding role. As a faculty member, Brian contributes to advancing public relations education and practice through empirical studies on relationship management, brand ambassador dynamics, and social media’s transformative potential.







