Steve Rottinghaus

Steve Rottinghaus is a Lecturer and Career and Outreach Coordinator at the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Kansas. Since 2015, he has supported students in securing internships and employment, advised the KU Ad Club and KU PRSSA, and taught professional development and career exploration courses. He also hosts the Cheers to Careers podcast, featuring KU alumni career journeys.

Education

• B.S., School of Journalism and Mass Communications, University of Kansas
• M.S. in Management, Baker University

Research & Professional Focus
Rottinghaus's work centers on career development in journalism and mass communication, integrating practical skills with industry engagement. His outreach efforts emphasize bridging academic training with real-world opportunities, particularly through collaboration with student organizations and media employers.

Honors & Recognition

• 1999 Oscar Stauffer Sportswriter of the Year
• 2004 Kansas Press Association Awards of Excellence (First Place)

Professional Background
Prior to joining KU, Rottinghaus served as Public Relations Director at Baker University (10 years) and worked in newspapers for 20 years, including roles at the Topeka Capital-Journal, Dallas Times-Herald, and Lawrence Journal-World. At the Journal-World, he managed the annual KU Today publication and mentored a teen advisory board. He remains an active speaker at career-focused events like the Kansas Association of Colleges and Employers conferences.