Stephen M. Llano

Dr. Stephen M. Llano is an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication Studies at St. John’s University, within the St. John’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. His research focuses on rhetoric, debate pedagogy, and argumentation theory, with notable contributions to understanding the intersections of debate practices, public address, and digital media. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Pittsburgh, an M.A. from Syracuse University, and a B.A. from Texas A&M University.

Dr. Llano’s work emphasizes the pedagogical and civic roles of debate, exploring how it cultivates critical thinking and navigation skills relevant to an uncertain future. His research spans topics like the history of university debating, the rhetoric of video games, and the ethical dimensions of argumentation. He has lectured internationally in Japan, Ukraine, Mexico, Slovenia, Serbia, and Italy, and maintains active engagement through blogs and podcasts on his website stevellano.com.

His publications reflect a commitment to interdisciplinary scholarship, addressing debate’s evolution, the subversive aspects of information slides in British Parliamentary debates, and the rhetorical influences of the Beat Generation. While he has not been explicitly noted for scientific awards, his contributions to argumentation studies and pedagogy have shaped debates in academia and beyond.

Teaching responsibilities include courses such as Public Speaking, Debate Practicum, and Presidential Debate. Though no formal grants or labs are mentioned, his work often intersects with civic engagement initiatives and digital discourse analysis.