Research Spotlights
Research Spotlights
Research Spotlights
At the Ric Edelman College of Communication, Humanities & Social Sciences at Rowan University, research is more than an academic pursuit—it’s a dynamic, collaborative force that shapes how we understand society, culture, and communication. Grounded in a rich tradition of storytelling and critical inquiry, our faculty and students lead innovative projects across digital humanities, media studies, political science, and more. These investigations don’t stay confined to the classroom—instead, they drive real-world impact through our public-facing centers, partnerships, and annual showcase events. Through our research, we amplify diverse voices, tackle pressing social issues, and nurture the next generation of critical thinkers ready to shape tomorrow’s world.
Digital humanities
The use of digital tools makes research in the humanities more accessible. Meet Jessica Mack, historian.
Political extremism
We become more attuned to the present by understanding the past. Meet Mikkel Dack, historian.
Holocaust and genocide education
Education is key to increasing knowledge about the Holocaust and genocide. Meet Jenny Rich, sociologist.
History of Television
What's worth watching? Meet David Bianculli, professor of television studies and TV critic.
Soviet-era history
Soviet-era archives reveal how shadow economies were critical to surviving in a repressive dictatorship. Meet James Heinzen, historian.
Homicide victims
How do we help family and friends of homicide victims move forward? Meet Jeanna Mastrocinque, crime victim researcher.
Presidential communications
Presidential communications and campaigns are continuously adapting to the times. Meet Anne Pluta, political scientist.
Policing
It's a critical time to enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement. Meet John Shjarback, criminologist.
Communication studies
Effective communication can be challenging in our modern media environment. Meet Celine Hong, media and communication researcher.
Juneteenth
How did Juneteenth become America’s emancipation holiday? Meet Emily Blanck, historian.
Cultural and global history
Over time, our cultural practices, such as the food we eat and how we eat it, have shaped population growth and the modern landscape. Meet Q. Edward Wang, historian.
Science communication
The internet is a popular news source, but identifying misinformation can be tricky. Meet Miles Coleman, science communication researcher.
Alternative food production
Sustainability, economics, public health and animal treatment are some of the key issues surrounding alternative food production. Meet Garrett Broad, communication researcher.
Political science
Examining the current political climate in Eurasia provides insight on violence, authoritarianism and other pressing issues. Meet Lawrence Markowitz, political scientist.
Untold history
It takes an expert storyteller to uncover the experiences of people of the past, like women and children, whose voices have not been heard. Meet Melissa Klapper, historian.
Cultural violence
We don’t remember American cultural violence the same way. That can change. Meet William Carrigan, historian.
Ancient human remains
Ancient human remains help us understand our roots. Meet Maria Rosado, anthropologist.