Aggrey Willis Otieno

Dr. Aggrey Willis Otieno serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication and Media at Utah State University, bringing over 19 years of international experience in social change initiatives across Africa, Latin America, and the United States. His work centers on leveraging communication strategies for child protection, health promotion, and social justice advocacy.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Mass Communication, Scripps College of Communication, Ohio University, USA

Research Focus: Specializing in Communication for Social Change, Dr. Otieno employs big data analytics to examine how user-generated content shapes attitudes and behaviors in digital environments. His expertise spans social media analytics, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and the application of communication strategies to influence change in child protection, health systems, and civic engagement. He particularly investigates online engagement dynamics during crises and in resource-constrained settings.

Research Trends: His publication record (2012-2025) reveals a consistent emphasis on digital communication for social impact in Kenyan contexts, with recurring themes in child protection advocacy, health communication during pandemics, and mobile technology applications for healthcare workers. Recent work examines social media's role in combating human trafficking and disease awareness, demonstrating methodological innovation through YouTube analytics and big data approaches.

Scientific Recognition:

• 2022 IFP Alumni research award
• 2016 Excellence in Global Leadership Award
• 2013 African Children Hero award
• 2012-2014 Rolex Laureate
• 2009-2011 Ford Foundation International Fellowship award

Professional Impact: Dr. Otieno's academic work directly informs his consulting practice with international development organizations, where he designs communication strategies that empower communities and advance human rights. His Ford Foundation and Rolex Laureate awards supported fieldwork establishing community-based protection systems for children and health initiatives in vulnerable populations. Current projects integrate social media analytics with traditional communication methods to amplify civic activism.

Collaborative Networks: While institutional lab affiliations aren't specified, his research demonstrates extensive partnerships with Kenyan health organizations, international NGOs, and community groups focused on child protection systems and health communication infrastructure.