Vesselina Valkanova

Professor Dr. Vesselina Valkanova serves as the Dean of the Faculty of Journalism and Mass Communication at Sofia University 'St. Kliment Ohridski'. With over 35 years of academic experience, she has held consecutive positions from assistant professor to full professor and leads media research initiatives focusing on digital transformations and quality journalism.

• Current Roles: Dean (2023-2027 term), Chair of the Academic Council of Sofia University
• Leadership: Former Deputy Dean, Head of Department, and Editor-in-Chief of the Faculty Yearbook

Research Interests span media theory, digital communication, visual presentation in traditional and online media, and sociocultural impacts of media transformations. Her work emphasizes:

• Metamorphosis of journalism in digital environments
• Generative AI adoption in media
• Convergence models in digital communication
• Media literacy education

Scientific Contributions include 5 monographs, over 100 studies, and 500+ citations in international databases. Key projects led:

• KP-06-N75/6 (2023): Media environment analysis in Bulgaria
• Media Masters (CERV-2023): EU-funded media literacy initiative
• International MOOC project on EU cohesion policy communication

Awards & Recognition:

• Honorary Breastplate 'St. Cl. Ohridski' (2012)

She contributes to academic governance as member of the Academic Council and General Assembly of Sofia University, and chairs editorial boards of international journals including Annals of Journalism and Mass Communication and Newmedia21.eu.