Karla Jensen

Karla Jensen is a Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at Nebraska Wesleyan University, where she specializes in contemplative pedagogy, mindfulness, and instructional communication. She is actively involved in teaching, service, and community engagement, with a strong commitment to innovative and transformative education.

Education:

• Ph.D., Communication Studies (Instructional Communication), University of Kansas, 1994
• M.A., Communication Studies (Intercultural Communication), University of Kansas, 1991
• B.A., Communication Studies and German, University of Nebraska, Phi Beta Kappa, 1988

Her research and teaching focus on integrating mindfulness into higher education, with interests in health communication, intercultural communication, and stress reduction. She has developed and taught innovative courses such as The Liberal Arts of Yoga Seminar and Be Here Now: Mindfulness Theory and Practice, reflecting her commitment to holistic and experiential learning.

Although no publications are listed in the provided text, her professional work centers on pedagogical innovation, contemplative practices, and communication education, indicating a strong applied and educational research orientation.

Scientific Awards and Recognitions:

• Prouty Award for Teaching Excellence, 2021
• National United Methodist Church Cutting Edge Curriculum Award, 2018
• TEDx Lincoln Presenter, October 1, 2015
• Exemplary Teaching Award, November 2013
• Exemplary Teaching Award, November 2004
• White Award for Internationalization, May 2010
• Phi Kappa Phi Inductee, May 2010
• Diversity Advocate Award, May 2006

Karla Jensen has served as Senior Class Advisor and Baccalaureate Speaker at Nebraska Wesleyan University. She has not received any listed grants, but her service includes leadership in curriculum development and diversity advocacy. She is also certified as a Mindfulness Teacher and a 500-Hour Registered Yoga Teacher, contributing to both academic and community-based mindfulness initiatives.

She is actively involved in professional development programs such as Preparing Future Faculty and volunteers at the Lincoln Correctional Center through prison mindfulness initiatives, demonstrating a deep commitment to service and social impact.