Online Faculty

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Dr. Kelli Smith | Assistant Professor

“Students will develop self-awareness of their communication behavior and be able to adapt their communication depending on the audience and situation. They will learn how to prepare and deliver professional presentations, manage interpersonal conflict, and work effectively in groups and teams.”


Degrees Held:

  • PhD Communication – Michigan State University
  • MA Speech – University of Hawaii
  • BA Psychology – University of Hawaii

Career Highlights:

Crick, M., & Smith, K. (2017). Applied Communication and Practice. Cognella; Smith, K. J. K., & Ferris, S. P. (2016). Social penetration theory and relationship formation in Harry Potter. In Communication Theory for Millennials (K. Roberts, Ed.). Peter Lang Publishing.; Smith, K. J. K., & Ferris, S. P. (2017). Using restaurant reviews to teach how to write literature reviews. Communication Teacher, 31(3), 167-171.

In which online degree program do you teach?

  • What do you want students to take away from your courses?

    Students will develop self-awareness of their communication behavior and be able to adapt their communication depending on the audience and situation. They will learn how to prepare and deliver professional presentations, manage interpersonal conflict, and work effectively in groups and teams.

  • Why did you start teaching?

    I had college professors who clearly loved the material they were teaching. Their enthusiasm was contagious. I enjoyed learning the material and found it relevant and useful in a variety of situations. I wanted to share knowledge and help people discover something that they would find valuable in their lives.

  • What advice would you give to those considering this online program?

    Don't be afraid to ask questions about the assignments or course content. We are happy to explain and clarify anything that you are unsure of. Pay attention to deadlines. They can creep up on you quickly.

  • What qualities make someone particularly successful in the area in which you teach?

    Having empathy for others, being a good listener, treating people ethically, having strong oral and written communication skills, and being well-organized.

  • Tell us something interesting about yourself that your students may not know about you.

    I was born and raised in Hawaii. I have a lovebird and two green-cheeked conures as pets.