Chelsea Tatham Zukowski

Chelesa Tatham Zukowski is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Journalism and Digital Communication at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg. She teaches courses such as Advanced Reporting, Media Ethics, and Neighborhood News Bureau, emphasizing practical experience and media literacy. Her professional background includes roles as a freelance journalist, digital producer at 10 Tampa Bay-WTSP/CBS, and staff reporter/copy editor at the Tampa Bay Times. Zukowski holds a B.A. in Mass Communications and Media Studies (USF, 2014) and an M.A. in American History (American Public University, 2020).

Her research interests span cultural history, entertainment criticism, and the intersection of media with historical narratives. She contributes freelance writing to publications like Orlando Weekly, Attractions Magazine, and Star Wars Insider, focusing on Florida cultural features, theme parks, and media history. As faculty adviser for The Crow’s Nest student newspaper, she mentors aspiring journalists.

Zukowski’s academic publications explore topics like animation’s role during the Great Depression, P.T. Barnum’s influence on American infrastructure, and the portrayal of war in comic books. Her writing bridges historical analysis with contemporary media practices, reflecting her dual expertise in journalism and American studies.