Dr. Kayla Hastrup Whitney

Dr. Whitney joined Nicholls in the Fall of 2021. She holds a PhD in communication studies with a concentration in mass communication from Louisiana State University. She received her master’s degree in communication from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia, and bachelor’s degree in communication and journalism from Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, New Jersey.

Her research interests include rhetorical theory and criticism, mass media effects, and communication pedagogy. Courses she has taught include: public speaking, argumentation and debate, business and professional communication, rhetoric and civilization, fundamentals of communication, virtual communication, and intro to communication.

Aside from her academic interests, Dr. Whitney enjoys listening to podcasts and audiobooks, swimming, walking, puzzles, and spending time with her husband and son.