Rachel Mourao

Rachel Mourao is an Assistant Professor of Journalism at Michigan State University and former W&L John M. Gunn International Scholar (2008-09). She specializes in digital media's role in political communication, with focus on Latin America and U.S. elections/protests. Her research examines how technology influences journalistic practices during political events.

Education includes a Ph.D. in Journalism from University of Texas at Austin, M.A. in Latin American Studies from University of Florida, and B.A. in Communication from Universidade Federal do Amazonas. Previously worked as online journalist and social media manager in Brazil.

Delivered a 2019 public lecture at Washington and Lee University titled 'Us Versus Them: Trump, Bolsonaro, and the News Media,' analyzing media's role in legitimizing political figures. Awards include top dissertation honors from International Communication Association and AEJMC.