Steffi Shook

Steffi Shook serves as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication and Media within the School of Arts and Sciences at Manhattanville College. Her research expertise spans social media, video games, film, gender and sexuality, and media representation.

Her educational background includes a Ph.D. in Mass Communication: Media Arts and Studies (2019) and M.A. in Film Studies (2013) from Ohio University, along with a B.A. in Communication (2011) from Flagler College.

Professor Shook specializes in analyzing marginalized representation through frameworks like “super-indie games” and “game space analysis,” examining how independent developers challenge exclusionary norms. Her work explores queer temporality in gaming, fandom dynamics during crises, and subversive elements in film musicals that critique heteronormativity.

Her publication trends reveal deep engagement with gender theory, media representation of marginalized groups, and innovative methodologies for analyzing interactive media, particularly focusing on empathy construction and resistance to mainstream cultural norms.

• Top Graduate Paper (2017) - Ohio Communication Association
• Outstanding Graduate Paper Award (2017) - Media Arts and Studies, Ohio University
• Third Place – 3 Minute Thesis Competition (2017) - Ohio University
• Outstanding Graduate Student Instructor of Record Award (2016) - Media Arts and Studies, Ohio University
• Outstanding Graduate Paper Award (2016) - Media Arts and Studies, Ohio University

She advises Lambda Pi Eta, the National Communication Honor Society, and has presented research at major conferences including the Popular Culture Association/American Culture Association National Conference and Different Games. Her work bridges academic theory with practical analysis of emerging media forms and their sociopolitical implications.