Richard Coltharp

Richard Coltharp is a Professor in the Department of Journalism and Media Studies at New Mexico State University (NMSU). He transitioned to academia after a decades-long career in professional journalism, becoming an Adjunct Professor in 2021 and teaching full-time from Fall 2024. His teaching areas include media writing, copy editing, sports writing, multimedia, and advertising, reflecting his diverse expertise in journalism and communication.

• Education: B.S. in Journalism from Oklahoma State University with a major in advertising and a minor in marketing.

Coltharp's professional background spans roles such as sports editor, advertising copywriter, managing editor, and publisher at media organizations like the Las Cruces Bulletin, Las Cruces Sun-News, and Alamogordo Daily News. His work has earned significant recognition, including 36 awards from the New Mexico Press Association.

He has contributed to NMSU by creating and teaching courses like Is Fake News Real for the Honors College, alongside foundational courses in media writing and advertising. Coltharp's personal connection to NMSU is deepened by his daughters, both graduates of the university.