Rico Self

Rico Self is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at North Carolina State University. He also serves as contributing faculty in Feminist Studies and Race and Ethnicity Studies Programs (cross-institutional affiliations noted in academic profiles). His work focuses on rhetorical studies, Black cultural analysis, queer methodologies, and intersections of media, race, and gender.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Communication Studies, Louisiana State University, 2020
• M.A. in Philosophy, Louisiana State University, 2019

Research Interests: Rico’s scholarship engages Black queer feminist frameworks, critical media analysis, and performative resistance strategies. He examines topics like HBCU advocacy through sport rhetoric, anti-Black state violence, and institutional DEI dynamics. His work bridges theoretical rigor with community-oriented praxis.

Recent Article Trends: Recent publications analyze prophetic rhetoric in HBCU leadership (2025), Black nihilism in academia (2024), queer autocritography as survival strategy (2024), and Black queer feminist performance (2023). These works collectively interrogate systems of oppression while proposing emancipatory frameworks.

Recognition: Has received institutional, regional, and national awards for teaching, research, and advocacy (specific awards unspecified). Active in public speaking and consultancy roles addressing social justice issues.

Grants & Teams: No specific grants or lab affiliations listed in provided texts. Advises graduate students in communication studies and interdisciplinary programs.