Jennifer Gillan

Jennifer Gillan is a Professor and Creative Industries Major Coordinator in Bentley University's English and Media Studies department, holding a Ph.D. from SUNY at Stony Brook and a B.A. from Georgetown University.

Her educational background includes:

• Ph.D., SUNY at Stony Brook
• B.A., Georgetown University

Gillan's research critically examines Television & New Media, Film and Media Studies, and Spectatorship and Fan Studies, with deep engagement in Gender Studies, Comparative Ethnicity Studies, and Native American Studies. Her work analyzes how media industries construct cultural narratives around race, gender, and identity through Hollywood film, streaming platforms, and audience reception practices.

Analysis of her 15 most recent publications reveals a sustained focus on television's evolution: from brandcasting hybrids merging content and promotion (Comcast/Disney) to fan textual poaching in streaming libraries (Disney+, Twin Peaks). Her scholarship consistently interrogates power dynamics in media representation, particularly regarding ethnicity and gender in contemporary digital culture.

In service, Gillan has mentored tenure-track faculty since 2013 as Principal Advisor and Mentor, while chairing key departmental committees including Hiring, Peer Evaluation, and Promotion. Her university-wide contributions span the Faculty Senate, Board of Trustees committees, and curriculum reform initiatives focused on communication sequences and student academic exploration.