Irina Gendelman

Irina Gendelman, Ph.D., is a Professor of Communication Studies and Chair of the Department of Society and Social Justice at Saint Martin's University. She specializes in media and culture studies, with a focus on place, food, travel, and pedagogical innovation. Her work integrates active learning, technology in education, and equitable teaching practices. She co-founded the Center for Scholarship & Teaching and leads the Communication Studies program.

Education:

• Ph.D., University of Washington
• B.A., University of Michigan & University of Paris, Sorbonne

Research Interests: Dr. Gendelman explores visual media, storytelling, critical cultural studies, and public scholarship. Her projects often bridge disciplines like food studies, environmental humanities, and global citizenship education.

Recent Work Trends: Her publications and presentations emphasize experiential learning, decolonial methodologies, and the intersection of food, place, and identity. Recent work includes collaborations on Indigenous storytelling and innovative course designs like PNW Nature, Food, and Literature.

Awards:

• Visiting Teaching Fellowship, UNSW Sydney (2022)
• MLA Humanities Innovation Grant (2020)

Grants & Advising: Co-developed grant-funded courses and chairs initiatives promoting cross-disciplinary collaboration. Advises on programs blending travel, sustainability, and community engagement.

Labs/Teams: Leads the Communication Studies program and co-directs the Center for Scholarship & Teaching, fostering pedagogical innovation and faculty development.