Department of Communication, Media and Theatre

Email: cmt@neiu.edu
Phone: (773) 442-5950
Room FA 240

(773) 442-5950
Cyndi Moran
Cyndi
Moran
Professor, Department Chair
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5977
Courses Taught
CMTM 363: Documentary Film
CMTM 362: Video Production Workshop
CMTM 361: Digital Video Editing
CMTM 360: Advanced Video Production
CMTM 311: Fieldwork in Video Production
CMTM 260: Introduction to Video Production
CMTM 208: Media Laboratory
CMTM 109A: First Year Experience: Chicago On Video: One Pixel at a Time
CMTM 160: Introduction to Cinema
Research Interests
Documentary film, video production and editing
Education

M.F.A. Northwestern University

Background

Cyndi Moran teaches a variety of media production courses includingIntroduction to Video Production, Advanced Video Production, and Digital Video Editing, as well as cinema studies courses, such as Documentary Film and The Art of Film and Video. Her documentary work has been seen on the PBS series P.O.V., and in numerous national and international festivals. She has produced TV segments for WTTW and The Sundance Channel, and she has edited independent documentary productions, television shows, commercials, and programs for artists and not-for-profits.

Room FA 242
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5977
Office Hours
Tuesday and Thursday: 1:00-3:00 p.m.
Wednesday: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.
Also by appointment most days between 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Main Campus
Steven Apter
Steven
Apter
Instructor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5950
Expertise
Television, Video and Film Theory and Production
Courses Taught
CMTM 260: Introduction to Video Production
CMTM 160: The Art of Film and Video
Research Interests
Television and Film Theory and Criticism
Education

M.F.A., Governors State University – Independent Film and Digital Imaging

B.A., Columbia College Chicago – Television Production

B.A., University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign – Cinema Studies

E 112
5500 North Saint Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5950
Office Hours
Monday: 6:30-7:05 p.m. and 9:45-10:30 p.m. (Zoom)
Main Campus
Curriculum Vitae
Katrina Bell-Jordan
Katrina
Bell-Jordan
Interim President of the University; Professor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5700
Expertise
Dr. Katrina Bell-Jordan’s teaching has emphasized media history and media literacy; studies in journalism and news writing; communication theory and mass communication theory; rhetorical theory and criticism; public address; and persuasion. She has additional teaching interests in cultural studies, gender studies, political communication, and popular culture.
Courses Taught
CMTM 465: Mass Communication Theory
CMTC 414: Seminar in Organizational Communication
CMTC 404: Communication Theory
CMTC 367: News Writing
CMTM 365: Contemporary Issues in Mass Media
CMTC 322: Rhetorical Theory & Criticism
CMTC 310: Persuasion
CMTM 265: Mass Media and Society
CMTM 165: Broadcasting and New Media
CMTM 105: Introduction to Journalism
CMTC 101: Public Speaking
CMTC 100: Introduction to Communication
Research Interests
Dr. Katrina Bell-Jordan’s research falls within the areas of cultural studies, media studies, and rhetorical studies. More specific emphasis is on race and representation in the media; intersections of gender and race; Black feminist thought and African-American women’s communicative experiences; identity and performance in media; and the rhetoric of popular culture. Specific attention has been given to humor in stand-up comedy, political cartooning and film/television parody.
Education

Ph.D. Ohio University, School of Interpersonal Communication (Rhetorical Studies & Media Studies)

M.A. Ohio University, School of Interpersonal Communication (Rhetorical Studies)

B.S.J. Ohio University, E. W. Scripps School of Journalism (News Editorial Journalism)

Selected Publications

Bell-Jordan, K. E.  (2011). Still subscribing to stereotypes: Constructions of black masculinity in popular magazines.  In M. P. Hopson, & R. L. Jackson (Eds.), Masculinity in the Black imagination: Politics of communicating race and manhood.  New York: Peter Lang Publishing.     

Bell-Jordan, K. E.  (2010). Forward.  In J. Tischauser, Anti-Arab and anti-Muslim bias in American newspapers: How they reported the 2006 Israeli-Hezbollah and Israeli-Hamas wars (pp. i-iv).  Lewiston, NY: The Edwin Mellen Press.

Bell-Jordan, K. E. (October, 2008). Black.White and a Survivor of The Real World: Constructions of race on reality TV.  Critical Studies in Media Communication, 25(4), 353-372.

Bell-Jordan, K. E.  (December, 2007).  Speaking fluent “joke”:  Pushing the racial envelope through comedic performance on Chappelle’s ShowPerformance Research, 12(3),74-90.

Bell, K.E., Orbe, M.P., Drummond, D.K., & Camara, S.K. (Winter, 2000). Accepting the challenge of centralizing without essentializing: Black Feminist Thought and African American women’s communicative experiences. Women’s Studies in Communication, 23 (1), 41-62.

Bell, K. E. (1998).  The more they change, the more they remain the Same: Representations of African American womanhood on Living Single. In T. McDonald, & T. Ford-Ahmed (Eds.), Nature of a sistuh: Black women’s lived experiences in contemporary culture (pp. 197-222). Durham, NC: Carolina Academic Press.

BBH 158
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5700
Office Hours
TBA
Main Campus
John Bliss smiles into the camera.
John
Bliss
Senior Instructor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5975
Courses Taught
CMTC 100: Introduction to Communication
CMTC 101: Public Speaking
CMTC 202: Voice and Diction
CMTC 213: Interpersonal Communication
CMTC 215: Small Group Communication
CMTC 313: Communication, Gender, & Identity
CMTM 160: Introduction to Cinema
CMTT 130: Introduction to Theatre
CMTT 347: Playwriting
Research Interests
John Bliss’s creative work includes writing fiction and nonfiction books for young readers. He writes scripts for educational videos for McGraw-Hall and Pearson. He also directs for NEIU’s Stage Center Theatre.
Education

M.F.A. The University of Iowa

Selected Publications

"Time with Leo"

"Designer Babies"

"Art That Moves: Animation Around the World"

Selected Performances

Directed "Becky Shaw" at NEIU.

Room FA 234
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5975
Office Hours
Tuesday and Thursday: 10:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m.
or please email to schedule a video appointment.
Main Campus
Maura Cherney smiles into the camera in front of plain background.
Maura
Baron (Cherney)
Assistant Professor and Graduate Advisor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
Graduate Studies and Research
(773) 442-5957
Courses Taught
CMTE 492: Teaching College Speech
CMTE 490: Instructional Communication
CMTC 416: Seminar in Interpersonal Communication
CMTC 404: Communication Theory
CMTC 400: Special Topics in Communication (Mediated Communication)
CMTC 400: Special Topics in Communication (Communication and Emotion)
CMTC 317: Intercultural Communication
CMTC 306: Special Topics in Communication (Communication Ethics)
CMTC 305: Writing for CMT (WIP)
CMTC 300: Mediated Communication
CMTC 215: Small Group Communication
CMTC 213: Interpersonal Communication
CMTC 102: Public Speaking for STEM
CMTC 100: Introduction to Communication
Research Interests
Dr. Maura Baron's research explores the role of communication technologies in our interactions, especially in interpersonal and instructional contexts. Her most recent work focuses on how people form impressions of other people based on information found about that person online.
Education

Ph.D. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (2018)
M.A. Illinois State University (2014)
B.A. St. Norbert College (2011)

Selected Publications

Ruppel, E. K., Cherney, M. R., Quinn, S. F., & Richards, R. J. (2021). Effects of mediated communication on conflict behavior, resolution, and affect in romantic couples. Journal of Social and Personal Relationships, 38, 3633-3645. https://doi.org/10.1177/02654075211040806

Cherney, M. R., Fetherston, M., & Johnsen, L. J. (2018). Online course student collaboration literature: A review and critique. Small Group Research, 49, 98-128. 

Fetherston, M., Cherney, M. R., & Bunton, T. E. (2018). Uncertainty, technology use, and career preparation self-efficacy. Western Journal of Communication, 82, 276-295. 

Cherney, M. R., Davis, D. C., & Metts, S. (2017). Surf’s up: Communicative aspects of online trust-building among Couchsurfing hosts. In M. Folk & S. Apostel (Eds.), Establishing and Evaluating Digital Ethos and Online Credibility. Hershey, PA: IGI Global. 

Room FA 233
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5957
Office Hours
Tuesday: 9:00-11:00 a.m. (Zoom)
Also available by appointment.
Main Campus
NEIU logo
Chris
Churchill
Instructor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5965
Courses Taught
CMTM 361: Digital Video Editing
CMTM 260: Introduction to Video Production
CMTC 101: Public Speaking
CMTC 100: Introduction to Communication
Research Interests
Documentary Film, Experimental Film, Absurd Comedy, Mental Illness, Performance
Education

M.F.A. Northwestern University. Documentary Media

M.A. Northeastern Illinois University. Communication, Media and Theatre

B.A. Northeastern Illinois University. Communication, Media and Theatre

Background

Chris has a wide range of artistic expertise ranging from stand-up comedy, to experimental film, to more serious documentary work. His thesis project for his M.A. at NEIU, "Tell Me About My Mother," (about his mother's struggles with extreme mental illness) won a few awards but, most importantly, has screened in front of classrooms and conventions of occupational therapists. His absurd comedic plays have been produced all around Chicago, including at Second City's DeMaat Theatre. His book, "Twenty Years Without a Weekend" recounts his unconventional path to becoming an expert in public speaking, by giving tours of the city of Chicago to tourists for over 20 years. Chris also has various television production experience, having worked with Big Shoulders Digital Video and other companies. Chris could go on. Chris likes writing about himself in the third person. 

Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5965
Office Hours
Monday and Wednesday: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Main Campus
Sarah J. Fabian smiles into the camera.
Sarah
J.
Fabian
Associate Professor; Managing Director of Stage Center Theatre
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5964
Expertise
Scenic Design, Lighting Design Theory, Costume Design Theory, Figure Drawing, Rendering, Model-building, AutoCAD, Adobe Photoshop, Scenic Painting, Scenic Construction, Properties Design, Properties Construction, Storytelling, Toy Theatre, Puppetry, Portfolio Development, Portfolio Website Design, Digital Photography
Courses Taught
CMTT 346: American Musical Theatre
CMTT 340: Set Design
CMTT 339: Technical Theatre Producion
CMTT 334: Special Topics in Theatre (Puppet Theatre)
CMTT 334: Special Topics in Theatre (The Art of Visual Storytelling)
CMTT 334: Special Topics in Theatre (European Opera & Musical Theatre)
CMTT 333: Contemporary Theatre
CMTT 240: Foundations of Theatrical Design
CMTT 130: Introduction to Theatre
STAM 300: The Performative Self - Exploring Identity and Character Through Theatre
Research Interests
Theatrical Scenic Design; Theatre for Young Audiences; Immersive Design; Theatre for Public Discourse; Diversity, Representation, and Inclusion in Theatre; Design for New Play Development; Playwriting
Education

M.F.A. in Stage Design - Scenic Design, Northwestern University

B.A. in Theatre with a Studio Art minor in Oil Painting, Hope College

Background

Sarah earned her MFA in Stage Design – Scenic Design from Northwestern University in Evanston, Ill., where she received a full-ride scholarship, and trained under award-winning scenic designers: Daniel Ostling, Todd Rosenthal and Walt Spangler.

Upcoming Work: The Cake (Nashville Repertory Theatre) in October 2022, and Once: The Musical (Writer's Theatre) in 2023

Select Credits:  Lookingglass Alice (Assistant Scenic Designer for 2022 remount production in Chicago, and the 2015 Miami and Denver Tours, Lookingglass Theatre Company); South of Settling (Steppenwolf);  In The Next Room (or The Vibrator Play) (TimeLine Theatre Company); The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane and James and the Giant Peach (Filament Theatre); Fulfillment Center and 3C (A Red Orchid Theatre); Unseen and A Life Extra Ordinary (The Gift Theatre).

Her design work has been recognized regionally by the American College Theatre Festival, nationally by the JFK Center for the Performing Arts, and internationally at the Prague Quadrennial exhibition held in the Czech Republic. Her photography work has been exhibited in New York City.

Room FA 232
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5964
Office Hours
Monday: 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 1:00-2:30 p.m.
Main Campus
Adam Goldstein smiles into the camera.
Adam
Goldstein
Assistant Professor and Artistic Director of Stage Center Theatre
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5954
Courses Taught
CMTT 473: Special Topics in Theatre (National Identity and Theatre)
CMTT 351: Children's Theatre Workshop (Middle & High School)
CMTT 350: Children's Theatre Workshop (Elementary School)
CMTT 345: Directing
CMTT 321: Acting 2
CMTT 240: Stagecraft
CMTT 221: Acting 1
CMTT 220: Improvisation
CMTT 203: Voice for the Performer
Research Interests
Theatre as cultural currency, theatre for social change and dialogue, the social history of musical theatre, new play development models, representation, diversity, and inclusion in storytelling, and the theatrical history of Ireland. He is in the process of proposing a new book for professional actors and students that teaches a repeatable dialect process and dynamically connects that process to the creation of character.
Education

M.F.A., Directing, Northwestern University

B.F.A., Acting, New York University's Tisch School of the Arts

Background

Adam is an accomplished director with a long history developing critically and nationally acclaimed new work. He brings credits and assistant credits at Steppenwolf, Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, Court Theatre, CityLit, Redtwist, The Side Project, Bristol Riverside Theatre, South Bend Civic Theatre, and leading companies across Chicago and the east coast. One of Chicago’s leading voice and dialect coaches, Adam has vocally designed nearly sixty productions in Chicago with his work praised by Chris Jones of the Chicago Tribune as “remarkable."

As an arts leader, Adam has helped to build, shape, and support major institutions such as Bristol Riverside Theatre, Hartford Stage Company, and William Morris Endeavor. Adam previously taught at Columbia College Chicago and Northwestern University before joining Northeastern. In addition to his time on campus, Adam continues to serve young artists as the head of musical theatre at Actors Training Center in Wilmette. His other interests include his wife, young son, a dog and cat, baseball, golf, crossfit, and his amazing neighborhood in Evanston. MFA-Directing, Northwestern University, BFA-Acting from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts. 

Room FA 229
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5954
Office Hours
Monday: 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 11:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Also available for appointments throughout the week.
Main Campus
Leslie Hull
Leslie
Hull
Instructor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5957
Expertise
Acting, Directing, Musical Theatre, Classical Theatre, Theatre History, Improvisation, Movement, Vocal Production, Dialects, Prop Design, Makeup/Wig Design, Theatre Management, Stagecraft
Courses Taught
CMTT 393: Drama for Teaching and Learning
CMTT 339: Technical Theatre Production
CMTT 338: Melodrama
CMTT 249: Makeup
CMTT 240: Stagecraft
CMTT 221: Acting 1
CMTC 202: Voice and Diction
CMTT 130: Introduction to Theatre
CMTC 100: Introduction to Communication
Research Interests
Contemporary and Classical Theatre, Women in Theatre, Female Representation in Theatrical Performance and Production, Arts Integration in Education, Art Therapies, Intersectional Performance
Education

B.F.A. Theatre/Musical Theatre, University of Michigan-Flint

M.F.A. Acting, Michigan State University

Background

Leslie has been working as an Artist/Educator in the Midwest region for over a decade. In addition to working on stage and screen and off, she works as a voiceover artist, audio book narrator, and amateur photographer. She is a proud member of Actors' Equity. Some regional theaters include Williamston Theatre, Tipping Point Theatre, Performance Network Theatre, The Henry Ford Museum, Metropolis Performing Arts, Idle Muse, Dandelion Theatre and Quest Theatre Ensemble.

Room F 110A
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5957
Office Hours
Monday and Wednesday: 2:30-4:30 p.m.
Tuesday and Thursday: 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Additional times available. Please email to confirm or to make an appointment.
Main Campus
G. "Max" Maxin IV laughs while wearing a blue shirt and yellow tie.
G. "Max"
Maxin
IV
Instructor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-2340
Expertise
Lighting Design, Projections Design, Scenic Design, Scenic Painting, Prop Design/Construction, Scenic Construction, Adobe Suite, Qlab, AutoCAD
Courses Taught
CMTT 351: Children's Theatre Workshop (Middle & High School)
CMTT 348: Advanced Stagecraft
CMTT 341: Lighting Design
CMTT 339: Technical Theatre Producion
CMTT 240: Foundations of Theatrical Design
Research Interests
Theatrical Production Design; Digitally Integrated Media in Theatre
Education

M.F.A. Michigan State University (Production Design)

B.A. Ashland University (Scene & Lighting Design)

Background

G. "Max" Maxin IV works also a freelance theatrical designer in Chicago and is one of the co-founders of Another Door Theatre Project. Favorite design credits include: "Gypsy," "Little Women," "Cabaret," "Bare (Another Door)"; "Urinetown" (Jeff Nomination Lighting), "Three Days of Rain," "Next to Normal," (BoHo); "The Nance," "Priscilla: Queen of the Desert," "Angry Fags," "Design for Living," "The Submission," "Book of Merman" (Pride Films & Plays); "First Date" (Royal George); "Spamalot" (Nightblue); "From These Fatal Loins," "Home Before Dark" (The Ruckus), and "Story of a Story" (The Untold Story) (Underscore).

Room F 113
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-2340
Office Hours
Monday: 1-2 p.m. in person and also by appointment any time via Zoom
Main Campus
Nancy McVittie smiles into the camera in a black and white photo.
Nancy
McVittie
Senior Instructor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5956
Expertise
Mass Media, Film and Television History, Cultural Studies, Critical Theory, Media Writing, Academic Writing
Courses Taught
CMTM 467: Special Topics in Film & TV (Hollywood and American Culture)
CMTM 466: Media and Cultural Studies
CMTC 404: Communication Theory
CMTM 390: NEIU Cinematheque
CMTM 376: Television History
CMTM 375: Contemporary Hispanic Cinema
CMTM 374: Special Topics in Film (Teen Movies)
CMTM 371: American Cinema (Origins-1950)
CMTC 305: Writing in Communication, Media and Theatre (WIP)
CMTC 300: Mediated Communication
CMTM 205: Fundamentals of Media Writing
CMTM 265: Mass Media and Society
CMTM 160: Introduction to Cinema
CMTC 100: Introduction to Communication
ZHON 191: Introduction to the Arts
Research Interests
Representations of Aging, American Culture, Social History of Film and Television, Comedy and Camp
Education

Ph.D. Screen Arts and Cultures, University of Michigan (2013)

M.A. Literature and Film, North Carolina State University (2008)

B.A. English and Art, Northern Illinois University (2003)

Selected Publications

Fade to Gray: Aging in American Cinema. Austin: University of Texas Press, 2016 (co-authored with Timothy Shary)

“Sending Camp to Kids: When John Waters and Paul Rubens Brought Queer Politics to the Underage Set,” in Coming Out to the Mainstream: New Queer Cinema in the 21st Century. JoAnne C. Juett and David Jones, eds. Cambridge: Cambridge Scholars Publishing, 2010.

Room FA 231
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5956
Office Hours
Tuesday and Thursday: 3:00-4:00 p.m.
Also available by appointment.
Main Campus
Seung-Hwan Mun looks into the camera in front of a plain gray background.
Seung-Hwan
Mun
Associate Professor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
Graduate Studies and Research
(773) 442-5868
Expertise
Dr. Seung-Hwan Mun teaches in the area of media studies, such as mass communication theory, media sociology, media law, broadcast media, new media technologies, and quantitative research methods.
Courses Taught
CMTM 465: Mass Communication Theory
CMTC 402: Seminar in Research Methods
CMTC 401: Introduction to Graduate Study
CMTM 379: Media Law and Ethics
CMTM 378: New Media Technologies
CMTM 365: Contemporary Issues in Mass Media
CMTM 265: Mass Media and Society
Research Interests
Dr. Seung-Hwan Mun’s research areas include media law, telecommunications policy, media history, and global media.
Education

Ph.D. The University of Texas at Austin

M.A. The University of Texas at Austin

B.A. Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea

Selected Publications

Mun, S. (2013). Reality check: Rethinking the global software piracy problem. International Telecommunications Policy Review, 20, 1-26.

Mun, S. (2013). Printing press without copyright: A historical analysis of printing and publishing in Song, China. Chinese Journal of Communication, 6, 1-23.

Mun, S. (Aug. 2011). Current trends of U.S. television market part II, 2011 Biannual Report of International Television. Strategic Programming Dept. of Seoul Broadcasting System.

Mun, S. (Jan. 2011). Current trends of U.S. television market part I, 2011 Biannual Report of International Television. Strategic Programming Dept. of Seoul Broadcasting System.

Room FA 235
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5868
Office Hours
Monday and Wednesday: 10:00 a.m.-n00n (Room FA 235)
Thursday: 9:00-11:00 a.m. (Zoom)
Main Campus
NEIU logo
Elizabeth
Otto-Cramer
Senior Instructor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
Courses Taught
CMTT 343: Stage Management
CMTT 342: Costume Design
CMTT 340: Set Design
CMTT 339: Advanced Theatre Practicum
CMTT 334: Special Topics in Theatre (Adv. Costume Construction)
CMTT 242: Costume Construction
CMTT 240: Stagecraft
CMTT 130: Introduction to Theatre
Research Interests
Theatre, Costume Design
Education

M.F.A., North Carolina School of the Arts

Room F 109
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

TBA
Office Hours
Tuesday: 9:00 a.m.-noon
Friday: 4:00-6:00 p.m
Also by appointment.
Main Campus
Profile Photo of Susanne Pawlikowski
Susanne
Pawlikowski
Office Manager
Communication, Media and Theatre
Philosophy
Education

M.A. Communication, Media and Theatre - Northeastern Illinois University

B.A. Communication, Media and Theatre - Northeastern Illinois University

FA 240
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

Office Hours
Mondays-Fridays: 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
Shayne Pepper
Shayne
Pepper
Professor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
Graduate Studies and Research
(773) 442-5962
Expertise
Film History, Television Studies, New Media, Critical/Cultural Theory, HBO, HIV/AIDS media
Courses Taught
CMTM 468: Seminar in New Media
CMTM 467: Special Topics in Film and Television (HBO: TV History and Theory)
CMTM 467: Special Topics in Film and Television (Reality Television)
CMTM 466: Media and Cultural Studies
CMTM 465: Mass Communication Theory
CMTC 401: Introduction to Graduate Study
CMTC 393: Professional Experience Seminar
CMTM 390: NEIU Cinematheque
CMTM 380A: Television Genres
CMTM 380: Special Topics in Television (Netflix and Contemporary Television)
CMTM 380: Special Topics in Television (HBO Past and Present)
CMTM 377: Gender and Media
CMTM 374: Special Topics in Film (French New Wave Cinema)
CMTM 374: Special Topics in Film (A24 and Contemporary American Cinema)
CMTM 373: World Cinema
CMTM 365: Contemporary Issues in Mass Media
CMTC 300: Mediated Communication
CMTM 265: Mass Media and Society
CMTM 160: Introduction to Cinema
ZHON 191: Honors - Introduction to the Arts
Research Interests
Dr. Shayne Pepper's research agenda is at the intersection of popular media, political activism, and public service. In particular, Dr. Pepper studies how film, television, and new media technologies are used to foster political activism and affect public policy with a focus on HBO's HIV/AIDS programming.
Education

Ph.D. Communication, Rhetoric, & Digital Media - North Carolina State University (2011)

M.A. Film Studies - University of Iowa (2007)

B.A. Drama & Communication - University of New Orleans (2004)

Selected Publications

"Cultural Programming and the Early History of HBO's Signature Style, 1978-1988." The Journal of Cinema and Media Studies, 61.5 (2021-2022), 86-112.

Subscribing to Governmental Rationality: HBO and the AIDS Epidemic.” Communication and Critical/Cultural Studies 11.2 (June, 2014), 120-138.

"HBO and the Story of AIDS." Communication Currents 9.3 (June, 2014)

“Public Service Entertainment: HBO’s Interventions in Politics and Culture” in Media Interventions. Kevin Howley (ed). (New York: Peter Lang, 2013), 127-142.

Beyond Netflix and TiVo: Rethinking HBO Through the Archive.” FlowTV.org, May 21, 2010

“Joanna Newsom Covers in the Blogosphere” in Visions of Joanna Newsom. Bradley W. Buchanan (ed). (Sacramento, CA: Roan Press, 2010).

Invisible Children and the Cyberactivist Spectator.” Nebula 6.4 (December, 2009), 40-55.

Background

Before earning his Ph.D. in Communication, Rhetoric, & Digital Media at North Carolina State University, Dr. Pepper earned an M.A. in Film Studies from the University of Iowa and a B.A. in Drama & Communication from the University of New Orleans. His work has appeared in The Journal of Cinema and Media Studies, Communication and Critical/Cultural Studies, Nebula, FlowTV, and Culture Machine. He has also contributed book chapters to several edited collections.

Room FA 239
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5962
Office Hours
Monday: 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Tuesday: 10:00-11:00 a.m. (Zoom)
Wednesday: 10:00-11:00 a.m.
Also by appointment.
Main Campus
Robert Ritsema looks into the camera in front of a plain background.
Robert
Ritsema
Senior Instructor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5951
Courses Taught
CMTM 390: NEIU Cinematheque
CMTM 374: Studies in Film - Film Genre
CMTM 374: Studies in Film - Film Authorship
CMTM 374: Studies in Film - Director: Kathryn Bigelow
CMTM 374: Studies in Film - Director: Quentin Tarantino
CMTM 374A: The American Horror Film
CMTM 372: American Cinema (1950-Present)
CMTM 371: American Cinema (Origins-1950)
CMTC 305: Writing in CMT (WIP)
CMTM 265: Mass Media and Society
CMTC 213: Interpersonal Communication
CMTM 160: Introduction to Cinema
Research Interests
Popular culture, cinema history, and the relationship between media and social change.
Education

M.A. Boston University (1986)

Room FA 238
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5951
Office Hours
Tuesday and Thursday: 12:30-1:30 p.m. and 3:00-3:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 3:30-4:00 p.m. and 5:30-6:00 p.m.
Main Campus
John Ross smiles into the camera while standing outdoors in front of a tree.
John
Ross
Senior Instructor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5959
Courses Taught
CMTC 319: Conflict Communication
CMTC 316: Family Communication
CMTC 315: Leadership Communication
CMTC 306: Special Topics in Communication - Science, Religion, and Communication
CMTC 306: Special Topics in Communication - Argumentation and Debate
CMTC 214: Business and Professional Communication
CMTC 202: Voice and Diction
CMTC 100: Introduction to Communication
CMTC 101: Public Speaking
Research Interests
Theatre, Poetry, Theology, Science
Education

A.L.M. Harvard  (Dramatic Arts)

S.T.M. Boston University (Systematic Theology)

M.P.S. Loyola University Chicago (Pastoral Theology, focus in Religious Communication)

M.A. University of Illinois (Theater) 

Selected Publications

iSpeak! uSpeak! weSpeak!: An Introduction to Contemporary Public Speaking (2012) 

Goat Troubles and Other Chicago Poems (2010)

Ode To Boston Neighborhoods: The Emerald Necklace, Bunker on the Hill, and other Tanka-Cantos (2011)

Where the Designer Came From (2011)

Tao-Te-Ching: The Way of Virtue in Leadership and Life (2012)

American Haiku (2012)

Cosmotrinity (2013) 

Background

John Ross Jr. has been a faculty member in the Department of Communication, Media and Theatre since 2000. He teaches courses in public speaking, voice and diction, and human communication, and he holds a graduate degree in dramatic arts from Harvard University.

Room FA 241
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5959
Office Hours
Monday and Wednesday: 10:30-11:30 a.m.
Friday: Noon-1:00 p.m.
Main Campus
Edie Rubinowitz looks into the camera while holding papers.
Edie
Rubinowitz
Professor and Internship Coordinator
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5976
Courses Taught
CMTC 386: Professional Experience Seminar
CMTM 367: News Writing
CMTM 366: Multimedia Storytelling
CMTM 364A: Solutions Journalism
CMTM 350: Podcasting and Audio Documentary
CMTC 305: Writing in Communication, Media, and Theatre (WIP)
CMTM 265: Mass Media and Society
CMTM 250: Introduction to Audio Production
CMTM 205: Fundamentals of Media Writing
CMTM 105: Introduction to Journalism
Research Interests
Journalism, Radio broadcasting, Media writing
Education

M.P.A. Harvard University

Additional Information

Professor Edie Rubinowitz teaches a variety of media and journalism courses, including Multimedia Storytelling, Mass Media and Society and News Writing. She is a freelance journalist and worked as news reporter for several years with NPR-affiliate Chicago Public Radio where she covered urban issues such as poverty, immigration, and housing. Her work has appeared on All Things Considered, Morning Edition, Marketplace, and Latino USA. On the academic side, she has presented at the National Communication Association and has written for the online Journal of Media Education.

Room FA 244
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5976
Office Hours
Wednesday: 11:30 a.m.-2:00 p.m. (Zoom/Google Meet)
Thursday: 10:30 a.m.-1:00 p.m. (Room FA 244)
Main Campus
Samentha Sepúlveda Picture
Samentha
Sepúlveda
Instructor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
Expertise
Internatural Communication, Organizational Communication, Communication Theory, Critical Qualitative Research, and Persuasive Communication
Courses Taught
CMTC 310: Persuasion
CMTC 306: Special Topics in Communication (Environmental Communication)
CMTC 306: Special Topics in Communication (Strategic Communication)
CMTC 305: Writing in Communication, Media and Theatre (WIP)
CMTC 300: Mediated Communication
CMTC 101: Public Speaking
CMTC 100: Introduction to Communication
Research Interests
Dr. Samentha Sepúlveda’s research concentrates on the crossroads of organizational and internatural communication (communication with and about nature). Additionally, her research examines communication from a critical lens to discover how discourses maintain and challenge exploitation. By highlighting the oppressive practices maintained by these discourses, she also sheds light on linked oppression related to gender, race, class, and more.
Education

Ph.D., Communication, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (2021)

M.A., Communication, Media and Theatre, Northeastern Illinois University (2017)

B.A., Communication, Media and Theatre, Northeastern Illinois University (2015)

Selected Publications

Sepúlveda, S. (2023).“I wouldn’t fall for that!” Exploring social influence and group decision making. Communication Teacher, 37(4), 278-282. https://doi.org/10.1080/17404622.2023.2182902

Sepúlveda, S., & Plec, E. (2021). Of rats and women: A cross-species read of space and place. In A. E. George (Ed.) Feminism and Gender in Critical Animal Studies. Lexington Publishers.

Riforgiate, S. E., & Sepúlveda, S. (2021). Managing and being managed by emotions. In F. Cooren & P. Stücheli-Herlach (Eds.) Handbook of Management Communication. De Gruyer Mouton

Sepúlveda, S. (2019). Review of abstinence cinema: Virginity and the rhetoric of sexual purity in contemporary film. [Review of the book Abstinence cinema, by C. R. Kelly]. Women & Language, 42(1), 125-128.  

Room FA 231
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

Office Hours
Tuesday and Thursday: 11:00am - Noon (Room FA 231)
Also available for virtual appointments.
Main Campus
Yejin Shin
Yejin
Shin
Assistant Professor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
Graduate Studies and Research
(773) 442-5961
Courses Taught
CMTC 414: Seminar in Organizational Communication
CMTC 402: Seminar in Research Methods
CMTC 314: Organizational Communication
CMTC 306: Special Topics in Communication (Music and Communication)
CMTC 214: Business and Professional Communication
CMTC 100: Introduction to Communication
Research Interests
Dr. Yejin Shin’s research focuses on organizational communication - especially in higher education institutions. In particular, her research interests include socialization process, minorities in higher education institutions, and interpersonal relationships in organizations.
Education
Ph.D. The University of Arizona (2021) 
 
M.A. New Mexico State University (2016)
 
B.A. Murray State University (2013) 
Selected Publications

Duncan, K. L., Sias, P. M., & Shin, Y. (2021). “But That’s Not My Job”: Employee Resistance to Extra-Role Tasks. Communication Studies, 1-20. https://doi.org/10.1080/10510974.2021.1953100

Sias, P.M., & Shin, Y. (2020). Workplace Relationships. in A. Nicotera (Ed.) Organizational communication: A comprehensive introduction to the field (pp. 187-206). Routledge Press.

Sias, P.M., & Shin, Y. (2020). Organizational Socialization. in A. Nicotera (Ed.) Organizational communication: A comprehensive introduction to the field (pp. 149-167). Routledge Press.

Room FA 236
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5961
Office Hours
Monday: 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Wednesday: 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Also available by appointment.
Main Campus
Dan Wirth smiles into the camera in front of a plain gray background.
Dan
Wirth
Senior Instructor
Communication, Media and Theatre
College of Arts and Sciences
(773) 442-5974
Expertise
Professor Wirth has a wealth of experience as a professional actor and director, and he is also a playwright.
Courses Taught
CMTT 393: Drama for Teaching and Learning
CMTT 359: Experimental Theatre
CMTT 351: Children's Theatre Workshop - Middle and High School
CMTT 350: Children's Theatre Workshop - Elementary School
CMTT 346: American Musical Theatre
CMTT 345: Directing
CMTT 334: Studies in Drama - Comedy of Menace
CMTT 334: Studies in Drama - Latinx Drama
CMTT 332: Theatre History 2
CMTT 346: American Musical Theatre
CMTT 255: Performance of Literature
CMTT 221: Acting 1
CMTT 203: Voice for the Stage
CMTC 202: Voice and Diction
CMTM 160: Introduction to Cinema
CMTT 130: Introduction to Theatre
CMTC 101: Public Speaking
CMTC 100: Introduction to Communication
Research Interests
Experimental Theatre, Devised Theatre, Living Newspapers, Magical Realism, Samuel Beckett, Harold Pinter, William Shakespeare
Education

M.F.A. University of California, San Diego

B.S. Central Michigan University

Selected Performances

Most recently directed SMOKEFALL at Oakton College, NUEVAS VOCES and BABEL at NEIU, a staged reading of TROUBLE IN MIND at Oakton, OFFENDED! at NEIU, and appeared in LOUNGING, written by NEIU Professor Emeritus Jim Blair, at the Filament Theatre and then again at the Raven Theatre in Chicago.

Background

Dan Wirth has been involved with theatre for most of his life. As a professional actor he toured throughout the United States with The Acting Company. While living in New York City, he performed at the Public Theatre, the Harold Clurman Theatre, the 18th Street Playhouse, Lamb’s Theatre, Playwright’s Horizons, The American Place Theatre, and the Actor’s and Director’s Lab (later renamed the Samuel Beckett Theatre.) In Europe, he performed at the Edinburgh International Theatre Festival and in London’s West End. Regionally, he has appeared at the Milwaukee Repertory Theatre, and the Utah and Oregon Shakespeare Festivals.

He worked with the esteemed directors Alan Schneider, Joseph Papp, Michael Langham, Liviu Ciulei, Garland Wright, Jerry Turner, and Sharon Ott, and has appeared on-stage with James Cromwell, J. T. Walsh, Jimmy Smits, Jamey Sheridan, Bob Gunton, Diane Venora, Kathleen Widdoes, David Warrilow, Alvin Epstein, Leigh Taylor-Young, Margaret Reed, Howard Korder, Wayne Knight, and Jeff Daniels. Dan was a Chicago Cub in the film Rookie of the Year. In Chicago, he appeared at the Raven Theatre and again at the Filament Theatre in Lounging. He has directed for six theatre companies in the Chicago area including Fury Theatre's production of The Merry Wives of Windsor.

As Artistic Director of The Intimate Theatre, his production of Miss Julie, the play's world premiere in a new translation, had a highly successful run with a cast of professional actors. This was a very ambitious undertaking for a new theatre company, and its success generated a great deal of visibility and respect for the group. An award winning playwright, Dan’s play Used Carlotta won new play contests at the Source Theatre in Washington, D.C. and the New American Comedy Festival in Ukiah, California, and was produced each time. It was also a finalist in the National Playwrights Conference at the O'Neill Theater Center. The Cleveland Public Theatre featured Urban Renovator Blues in their Eighth Festival of New Plays. In Chicago, his production of the play was chosen as the premiere theatre piece for the reopening of Cabaret Voltaire, a performing space that went on to feature many new and experimental theatre works. Also a published poet and a film maker, Dan has taught theatre and communication courses at Dominican University, Wright College, Harper College, Oakton College, Daley College, Barat College, and Lake Forest College.

In his numerous years at Northeastern Illinois University he has directed Nuevas Voces, Babel, Offended!, Episode 26, Why Torture Is Wrong, And The People Who Love Them, The Cherry Orchard, Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Fuddy Meers, An Inspector Calls, Charley’s Aunt, The Skin of Our Teeth, The Birthday Party, Dracula, Buried Child, Little Murders, The Curate Shakespeare As You Like It, The Nerd, four Children’s Theatre productions, and eight Summer Transition Program Drama Workshops. He appeared on stage at NEIU as a very large Lady Bracknell in The Importance of Being Earnest. He has an M.F.A. from The University of California, San Diego, and a B.S. from Central Michigan University.

Room FA 230
Northeastern Illinois University
5500 North St. Louis Avenue
Chicago, IL 60625
United States

(773) 442-5974
Office Hours
Monday and Wednesday:
10:50-11:20 a.m.
12:55-2:10 p.m.
3:45-4:00 p.m.
5:30-6:00 p.m.
Main Campus