Kate Stewart

Kate Stewart, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at Jacksonville State University's College of Business and Industry. Her work bridges public relations, social media strategy, and influencer marketing, with a focus on educating future communicators through innovative teaching methods that integrate her industry expertise.

• Ph.D. in Mass Communication with a Cognate in Marketing, University of South Carolina (2024)
• M.A. in Communication and Journalism (Public Relations), Auburn University (2020)
• B.A. in Public Relations Communication, Auburn University (2018)

Stewart's research examines the intersections of social media influencers and their audiences, utilizing mixed methods to explore perception, behavior, and effects within the influencer ecosystem. She also investigates mass media consumption patterns and their societal implications.

Her recent publication, a book review of Creator Culture: An Introduction to Global Social Media Entertainment in the Journalism & Mass Communication Quarterly, underscores her engagement with evolving digital communication paradigms. This aligns with her broader research on strategic communications and branding in digital spaces.

• Kopenhaver Center Fellow (2024)
• Faculty Adviser, Jacksonville State University PRSSA Chapter
• Assistant Editor of Digital Media and Social Media for the Journal of Public Relations Education

Stewart serves on committees for the Association of Education in Journalism and Mass Communication Public Relations Division and consults for Stukent and various agencies. Her teaching includes courses like COM 345 Social Media Strategy and COM 316 Podcasting.