The research explores ways journalism and strategic communication can create positive social change.

Six University of Missouri students who make up the inaugural cohort of the Gregory Scholars Program will present original research at the Show Me Research Week spring forum on April 18-20, 2023.

The Gregory Scholars Program, spearheaded by Shelly Rodgers, PhD, the Maxine Wilson Gregory Chair in Journalism Research at the Missouri School of Journalism, offers University of Missouri undergraduate and graduate students the opportunity to conduct research to inform journalism and strategic communication practice, education, and policy and to share this information in ways that are beneficial to researchers, educators, practitioners, policymakers, and the public.

The inaugural cohort of Gregory Scholars Program and their research projects:

• Owen Bazigian, a junior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in political science. Owen’s research is titled, “Toxic Masculinity of Hip Hop Music Culture”
  • Owen’s research has been selected for inclusion in the Humanities Symposium Student Panel, which is scheduled for 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, April 21, in Jesse Wrench Auditorium.
• Sophie Carite, a junior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in journalism. Sophie’s research is titled, “Understanding the Public’s Knowledge and Trust of Health Advertising”
• Krutika Deshpande, a master’s student in the College of Engineering. Krutika’s research is titled, “Use of Augmented Reality and Storytelling by Brands to Enhance Experience and Connect with Consumers”
• Cate Enrooth, a graduate student in the Harry S. Truman School of Government and Public Affairs. Cate’s research is titled, “Seeking the Public Health Angle in Missouri Newspaper Coverage of the Opioid Crisis”
• Nahomi Gonzalez, a senior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences. Nahomi’s research is titled, “Public Service Announcements Against Domestic Violence: Should We Do More?”
• DaVonna Nickerson, a junior pursuing a bachelor’s degree in communication. DaVonna’s research is titled, “An Exploration of Consumer Attitudes Toward Brands’ Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives”

Rodgers and her graduate research assistants—Evgeniia Belobrovkina, Ting-Hao Tsou, and Justin F. Willett—support the Gregory Scholars’ work and help them develop an appreciation for the role of research in building strong communities. 

“There are simply not enough words to express the exceptional work of the Gregory team!” Rodgers said. “I’m impressed by the fact that every team member is an engaged, passionate, and dedicated individual who truly cares about using strategic communication research to make a positive impact in the world.” 

The spring forum is the research showcase of Show Me Research Week, which is scheduled for April 17-21 on the University of Missouri campus. Show Me Research Week, a celebration of MU research accomplishments, is a collaboration between the Bond Life Sciences Center and the Office of Undergraduate Research. For more information, visit research.missouri.edu/show-me-research-week.