Assistant Professor

Brett Billman, PhD

Dr. Billman is an educator/advocate specializing in communication, teaching a diverse range of courses that explore how individuals create and use messages to generate meaning across different contexts, cultures, channels, and media. His work emphasizes the critical role of effective and ethical communication in fostering a democratic citizenry and empowering individuals to contribute thoughtfully to society.

Committed to social justice, Dr. Billman also focuses on giving voice to those who have historically been silenced, encouraging students to engage in communication practices that promote inclusivity and amplify underrepresented perspectives.

Contact Us

Contact Brett Billman for information on Public Relations and Strategic Communication

Galvin Fine Arts Center 41

563-333-6137

BillmanBrettN@sau.edu

Education and Training

PhD, Bowling Green State University, Communication Studies
MA, University of Northern Iowa, Performance Studies
BA, University of Northern Iowa, Political Communication

Presentations

Billman, B. N. (2024). Queer Representation in the Media (2024). Presented at the World Affairs Council meeting, Bettendorf, IA.
Billman, B. N. (November 2022). Binge Worthy: Liberating Representations. Panel presented at the National Communication Association Conference, New Orleans, LA.
Billman, B. N. (November 2019). Surviving the Turbulent Waters of Academia: LGBTQ Mentoring. Panel a the National Communication Association Conference, Baltimore, Maryland.

Courses Taught

Communication Theory

This course offers an exploration of key communication theories that shape our understanding of human interaction and mass communication and equips students with skills to critically analyze and apply theories to real-world situations. Students will engage with foundational concepts, frameworks, and models that inform the study of communication across various contexts, including interpersonal relationships, media, journalism, and social platforms

Public Relations Techniques

Intermediate course in reporting and writing news, features, releases, newsletters, fact sheets, press kits, direct mail, advertising as well as basic business documents used in professional public relations. Stresses information gathering, excellence in writing, and adherence to professional style.

Queer Studies

This course provides students with an introductory, interdisciplinary - historical, sociological, cultural, political - examination of the lives and perspectives of gay, lesbian, bisexual, trans and otherwise queer persons. Analyzes and destabilizes normative, binary assumptions about gender, sexuality, and sexual identity. Takes an intersectional approach that acknowledges the impact of class, race, ethnicity, ability, and nationality. Addresses the importance of political advocacy to defend the lives and human rights of queer persons. Explores cultural and institutional factors that create and maintain systems of oppression. Course materials will include foundational texts, films, popular culture, as well as recent scholarship.

Interpersonal Communication

Introduction to intrapersonal and interpersonal communication processes, perception, and decision-making. Verbal and nonverbal codes, transactional styles and techniques of enhancing interpersonal relationships.

Relational Communication in Science, Health, and Professional Contexts

This course is designed to enhance students' interpersonal and professional communication skills in public, dyadic and group communication contexts. Students will learn how to communicate complex information to non-experts with an emphasis on science and health information. Particular areas of focus will be empathy, rapport, credibility, intercultural, nonverbal, conflict and interviewing.

Internship in Communications

Professional Service

I have served on various university committees such as EPC, Retention, Safe Zone, DEI leadership committee, and numerous search committees.
I regularly review papers and panels for the LGBTQ Caucus, Critical Cultural Studies Division, Feminist and Gender Studies Division, and the Basic Course Division.

Professional Memberships

Presentations

Billman, B. N. (2024). Queer Representation in the Media (2024). Presented at the World Affairs Council meeting, Bettendorf, IA.
Billman, B. N. (November 2022). Binge Worthy: Liberating Representations. Panel presented at the National Communication Association Conference, New Orleans, LA.
Billman, B. N. (November 2019). Surviving the Turbulent Waters of Academia: LGBTQ Mentoring. Panel a the National Communication Association Conference, Baltimore, Maryland.