Thomas A. Hollihan

Thomas A. Hollihan is a Professor of Communication at the University of Southern California’s Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism. He specializes in argumentation, media diplomacy, political campaign communication, and the impact of globalization on public deliberation. His work bridges rhetorical theory, international relations, and media analysis.

He served as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs at Annenberg from 1997 to 2007 and currently chairs the Executive Committee of the USC U.S.-China Institute. Hollihan has held leadership roles in professional organizations, including president of the American Forensic Association and Western Forensic Association. He is a faculty fellow at the USC Center on Public Diplomacy and the USC Center on Communication Leadership and Policy.

His research explores media narratives in geopolitical conflicts (e.g., North Korea, Diaoyu/Senkaku Islands), public diplomacy strategies, and the role of rhetoric in political campaigns. He has authored seminal books such as Diplomatic and Mediated Arguments in the North Korean Crisis and Uncivil Wars: Political Campaigns in a Media Age. His work emphasizes the interplay between media, politics, and global governance.

Hollihan has been a visiting scholar at Renmin University, Communication University of China, and Meiji University. He advises political candidates, NGOs, and the U.S. Navy on strategic communication. His honors include the Daniel M. Rohrer Research Award (1988, 1995) and the Outstanding Debate Coach Award (1987).

He teaches courses in global communication, public diplomacy, and campaign communication. His affiliations with international centers reflect his focus on transnational issues such as U.S.-China relations and public diplomacy innovation.