Shelley L Wigley

Dr. Shelley L Wigley is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), part of the College of Liberal Arts. She specializes in crisis communication, inoculation theory, and public relations strategy. Her work bridges academic research and professional practice, with over a decade of experience in media relations and crisis preparedness.

Education: She holds a PhD in Mass Communication from the University of Oklahoma (2007), an MS in Mass Communication from Oklahoma State University (1999), and a BS in Broadcast Journalism from the same institution (1991). She also holds certifications in Effective Instruction (ACUE) and Microcredential Innovator (UT System).

Research focuses on resistance mechanisms in communication, including inoculation theory applications in crisis management and social media strategies. Notable projects include studying negative user-generated content in crises and evaluating corporate social responsibility campaigns. Her work has been published in journals like Public Relations Review and Corporate Communications: An International Journal.

Awards: Recognized for teaching excellence (e.g., 2020 Outstanding Teaching Award) and research grants (e.g., $100k Knight Foundation grant for disinformation studies). She has also received honors like the Phi Kappa Phi membership and Gertrude Golladay Memorial Award.

Teaching: She teaches graduate courses in persuasion and crisis communication and undergraduate courses like Public Relations Campaigns. Her interactive style emphasizes hands-on learning and strategic social media practices.

Service: Serves on multiple committees at UTA, including the PR Faculty Search Committee and the College of Liberal Arts Research Committee. Engages in community outreach via public speaking and mentoring initiatives like the Maverick Advantage program.

Advising: Supervised over 30 students in thesis, internship, and practicum roles, focusing on public relations, crisis management, and nonprofit communication.