Carolyn M. Cunningham

Carolyn M. Cunningham is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Communication & Leadership Studies at Gonzaga University within the College of Arts and Sciences. She teaches graduate courses in digital storytelling, social media, communication pedagogy, and women's leadership, and her research critically explores the intersections of gender, technology, and media.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Radio-Television-Film, University of Texas at Austin, with Doctoral Portfolio in Women's and Gender Studies
• M.A. in Radio-Television-Film, University of Texas at Austin, with Master's Portfolio in Women's and Gender Studies
• B.A. in Women's Studies, University of Southern Maine

Her research interests center on gender and technology, digital media, cyberfeminism, media literacy, and leadership. She investigates how digital platforms shape identity, power, and social justice, particularly through the lens of feminist theory and communication studies. Her work spans video games, social media, digital citizenship, and rhetorical strategies for social change.

The 15 most recent publications reflect a consistent focus on the gendered dimensions of digital culture, from online harassment and trolling to climate activism and feminist game design. Her scholarship bridges academic research with public engagement, often addressing real-world issues such as digital inclusion, youth empowerment, and media ethics. She frequently employs qualitative and critical methodologies, contributing to interdisciplinary dialogues in communication, gender studies, and education.

Scientific Awards:

• No awards mentioned in the provided text.

Carolyn M. Cunningham is actively involved in academic leadership and public scholarship. She serves as Director of the Northwest Alliance for Media Literacy, demonstrating her commitment to community engagement and media education. While no formal advising list is provided, her collaborative publications suggest mentorship of students and junior scholars. She has not received or been awarded any named grants in the provided text, but her extensive publication record indicates sustained research productivity. Her work contributes significantly to understanding how digital technologies mediate gender, power, and justice in contemporary society.

Labs, Teams, and Initiatives:

She is the Director of the Northwest Alliance for Media Literacy (https://nwamedialiteracy.org), a regional initiative promoting critical media engagement and digital literacy. This role underscores her dedication to applied research and community outreach in media education.