Hayden Barber

Hayden Barber is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at South Dakota State University's School of Communication and Journalism (COJO). He holds a Ph.D. from Purdue University's Brian Lamb School of Communication (2022), an M.S. from the same institution (2017), and a B.A. in Sociology and Communications from the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point (2015).

His research focuses on emotion perception in messages, organizational communication, and decision-making. His work has been published in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships and Metaphor and Symbol, with current projects exploring emotional displays from smart technology in sustainability contexts (via an NSF grant) and emotion conceptualization in communication studies.

Barber teaches courses like Business and Professional Communication (CMST 311) and Organizational Communication (CMST 410/510), emphasizing project-based learning and mentorship. He serves on COJO's Graduate Program Committee and holds leadership roles in the National Communication Association (NCA), including secretary for the Communication and Social Cognition division. He is also active in ICA (International Communication Association).

His office is located in Pugsley Center 115F, with a mailing address at Box 2218, Brookings, SD 57007.