Representing FSU in the nation’s capital, two students, Alexis Moser, an SCSD PhD student, and Fran Baehman, an SCSD Master’s student, attended the 2025 Annual Speech-Language-Hearing Association Convention in Washington, D.C. Moser’s research and presentation focused on a holistic approach to assessing children with speech sound disorders. Baehman’s presentation was titled “The BabyTok Project 3.0: A Preventive, Social-media Based Intervention for Caregivers of Young Infants.” Both students expressed appreciation for what this scholarship meant for their presentations and conference experiences.

“Receiving the Irene Phillips Backus scholarship made it possible for me to travel to Washington, D.C. to present at the conference. As a first-year PhD student who recently relocated from out-of-state and left full-time clinical work to pursue doctoral training, the support helped offset those transition and travel costs,” said Moser. “Because of this scholarship, I was able to share my research with a large audience of clinicians, mentors, and researchers, which is an important step in growing as an emerging researcher.”

“From my perspective,” Baehman said, “when alumni donate to support the College through scholarships and the Great Give, current FSU students feel the support of a larger community that is working together to advance the best, evidence-based research to make a difference in the field of CSD.”

The impact of the scholarship extends to the undergraduate level as well. Hannah Figueras, an undergraduate senior, was able to visit the 2025 American Academy of Audiology (AAA) Annual Conference alongside the FSU Student Academy of Audiology. At the conference, she attended presentations, toured the Hear Tech EXPO, and met with multiple researchers and audiologists from around the United States. Awards like the Irene Phillips Backus Scholarship make these incredible opportunities possible for both undergraduate and graduate students.

“As a senior approaching graduation, it is important for alumni to stay connected and donate to the college through scholarships, especially the Great Give, to support future students with similar aspirations and like-minded pursuits,” said Figueras. “These scholarships will contribute to participation in experiences that are influential in shaping career path decisions, plans to continue education at a graduate-level program, and open networking opportunities.”

On the west coast, Ashley Sellers, an SCSD PhD student, attended the Conference for Research Innovations in Early Intervention (CRIEI) in San Diego, California. The goal of her research and project was to better understand what teachers felt they needed to support young children’s communication and social-emotional development in their classrooms. Sellers highlights the scholarship’s role in making cross-country professional travel accessible for students.

“Conferences are where we learn how to share our work, ask questions, and become part of the larger professional community. It is also the primary place researchers showcase the amazing research being done at FSU,” Sellers said.

Alumni donations like the Irene Phillips Backus scholarship allow undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students alike to attend conferences that enhance their knowledge of their field and gain confidence in their research and presentation abilities.

“Florida State University has just celebrated its 75th anniversary of Modern Debate, and the history of competitive debate at our institution dates back to the late 1890s. Our debate team this year is maintaining the record of excellence that is their hallmark,” said Dr. Michelle M. Kazmer, Dean of the College of Communication and Information. “I am delighted, grateful, and honored that Mrs. Turnbull has chosen to honor her husband, Dr. Augustus Turnbull III, by investing in the long-term future of debate at FSU, so that our debate students may flourish for another 125 years and more.”

Marjorie Turnbull’s support was inspired by her late husband, Dr. Augustus Turnbull III’s involvement with debate while he was a student at the University of Georgia. He was a student leader and served as captain of the debate team. It was his activity in debate that he often credited with providing a solid foundation for his later success in the academic world. He subsequently earned a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia and joined the faculty of Florida State University. He then served as vice-president for academic affairs and later as provost until his death in 1991. During his tenure as provost, he was a strong supporter of the FSU Intercollegiate Debate Team.

The award-winning FSU Speech and Debate Team has had a history of success. Most recently, the team qualified once again for the National Debate Tournament after winning both the open and junior varsity divisions at the Steve Hunt Classic in Portland, Oregon, in October 2025. Marjorie Turnbull’s gift will continue this legacy of achievement by providing a range of support for the debate team, including salary support for an assistant coach or a graduate assistant stipend, registration fees for national and international tournaments, travel expenses to national and international competitions, and other expenses directly related to program activities of the debate team.

We encourage you to consider making an online donation to support the great work happening at the College of Communication & Information (CCI) and help us reach our goal. Continue reading to learn about each of the 12 CCI projects that this initiative will support!

Arrowhead Advertising

Arrowhead Advertising is a team who compete in the American Advertising Federation’s annual National Student Advertising Competition. The team has won first place in the district competition four times in the past five years. Donations help cover competition expenses, including membership fees, travel, and other activities, providing students with hands-on experience. Help them reach their goal of $6,000 to support current and future students. 

Cybersecurity Club Fund

FSU’s Cybersecurity Club is open to students from all majors and provides hands-on learning experiences in cybersecurity while representing FSU in regional and national competitions. Donations will support the club’s operations, including competition fees, new technology, and mentorship events designed to help students secure jobs in the field. The club aims to raise 20,000 dollars to enhance its efforts. The first 5,000 dollars raised will be dedicated to competition fees and expenses. Additional funds will be used to replace outdated technology and organize networking events with mentors and alumni, ensuring FSU students remain at the forefront of cybersecurity education and practice.

Help Guatemala Hear Service Trip

Since 2015, Dr. Selena Snowden has led service trips to provide audiology treatments and hearing aids to those in need in Guatemala. The team recently returned from Panajachel, where they collaborated with Porch de Salomon, a nonprofit that has hosted mission teams since 2006. This team is the only one providing hearing services in the region. The trip is funded through donations, with all necessary supplies, including medical and audiology equipment, brought from home. Every penny donated directly benefits the people of Guatemala, and any unused supplies will remain with Porch de Salomon. Your support helps bring the gift of hearing to those in need.

Intensive Comprehensive Aphasia Program

This new initiative by FSU’s School of Communication Science and Disorders aims to start an Intensive Comprehensive Aphasia Program (ICAP) for stroke survivors and their families. Aphasia, a communication disorder caused by brain injury or stroke, affects a person’s ability to speak, read, and write. The FSU ICAP will offer a 4–6-week program providing education, therapy, and interdisciplinary support from students and faculty across various rehabilitation fields. Donations will support the launch of this program, helping to provide holistic care for stroke and brain injury survivors, and empower them to regain vital communication skills.

iSchool Innovation Fund

The School of Information is made up of dedicated innovators focused on producing graduates of the highest caliber. Alumni contribute by offering internships, employment opportunities, and promoting the program within their networks. Your contribution will enhance mentoring initiatives, bring renowned guest speakers to campus, and fund career workshops for students at all levels. The funds will also support focus groups to gather curriculum feedback and create student-led groups to assist incoming students. 

School of Communication

Your support will enable the development of activities to recognize student accomplishments throughout the year, including graduation events that invite students, their families, and friends.

School of Communication Student Excellence Fund

Graduate and undergraduate students in the School of Communication conduct impactful research on issues affecting society, including media production, industry practices, regulation, and the effects of media content. Their work also explores emerging technologies, social media, and documentaries on subjects with global, political, and economic significance. Your support will fund these projects, helping to deepen their understanding of the human condition and providing further opportunities for student success.

Spotlight on Student Success at The Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication

The Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication at Florida State University, the first of its kind in the U.S., conducts groundbreaking research, serves as an industry resource, and equips students with cutting-edge knowledge to meet the growing demand for professionals in the U.S. Hispanic market. It educates students to serve Hispanic and multicultural markets, provides insights for marketing and media industries, and integrates current trends and technologies. Your generosity will fund recruitment, research fellowships, events with professionals and scholars, and support for students attending conferences, conducting research, and gaining experiential learning and internship opportunities.

STARS – Student Leadership Corps

STARS (Students & Technology in Academia, Research, & Service) is a student-led alliance at FSU dedicated to increasing participation in IT/computing fields among K-12 students and on campus. The FSU STARS Alliance works to expand the pipeline of students pursuing IT careers, raise awareness about IT education, and prepare FSU students to become leaders in IT and communication. The group has earned awards for its outreach, including school visits across Florida, judging competitions, leading workshops, and engaging with tech employers. Donations support STARS’ mentorships, workshops, conferences, and efforts to develop an employer pipeline for students, helping them build critical leadership and communication skills for success in IT and communication careers.

Support Students in Communication & Information (Dean’s Excellence Fund)

Your gift will provide opportunities for students to excel beyond the classroom, supporting the success of the College’s students and faculty through activities, employer engagement, milestone celebrations, community outreach, and professional development.

Voices of Tomorrow: FSU Speech & Debate Society

The Marilyn J. Young Debate Endowment, established in 2014, ensures the future of Florida State University’s historic debate program, which has been a part of the university for over a century. The project supports student participation, training, and competitions, while preserving the legacy of debate excellence at FSU. Donations help develop critical thinking and communication skills, preparing students for success in various fields such as law, business, and education. The endowment ensures that future generations continue to benefit from FSU’s distinguished debate program.

WVFS Tallahassee 89.7FM

WVFS Tallahassee 89.7FM, the Voice of Florida State (V89), thanks you for your support! Staffed by 200 volunteers, V89 offers diverse programming and provides students with hands-on experience in all areas of radio. For over 37 years, V89 has been a vital educational resource and independent station. Your donation helps maintain broadcasts, support student development, and upgrade equipment.

For photos from the event, click here.

CCI congratulates the following student and faculty award recipients:

Student Leadership Award Recipients: 

Carly Nelson (School of Communication)

Mia Carter (School of Communication Science & Disorders)

Rekia Shird (School of Information)

Faculty Leadership Award Recipients: 

Jessica Wendorf-Muhammad (School of Communication)

Leonard “Chick” LaPointe (School of Communication Science & Disorders)

Leila Gibradze (School of Information)

Dean’s Award Recipients: 

The following scholarship recipients were also recognized during this event: 

School of Communication 

School of Communication Science & Disorders

School of Information

Aligned with National Hispanic Heritage Month, the 2024 Gala event is a platform to acknowledge Latino excellence and honor the achievements of distinguished honorees. The event will honor Vivian de las Cuevas-Diaz, a member of the Florida State University Board of Trustees; Carlos Carrasco, an award-winning actor, producer, and director; Enrique ‘El Perro’ Bermúdez, a notable, multi-world soccer narrator and commentator; and Tito Puente Jr., a renowned Latin percussionist, songwriter, and music producer. The event will feature a captivating silent auction, live musical performances, and networking opportunities with our students, faculty, industry professionals, and friends.

“We are proud to be a pioneering center dedicated to conducting and educating about groundbreaking research on understanding Hispanic consumers. It is our responsibility to support and advocate for our Hispanic students, ensuring the ongoing work of the CHMC at FSU for generations to come,” says Dr. Sindy Chapa, Director of the Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication.

The 20th Anniversary Gala is a celebration and a commitment to providing financial assistance for aspiring marketing and communications professionals. The event proceeds will provide educational resources and opportunities such as scholarships, educational activities, and relevant industry programs to the students of the CHMC at Florida State University.

Please visit the 20th Anniversary Gala website to learn more about the event. Tickets can be purchased here.

About the Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication: The Center for Hispanic Marketing Communication (CHMC) at Florida State University was founded by Dr. Felipe Korzenny in 2004. The Center’s programs are housed in the FSU School of Communication. The Center is the first of its kind in the United States devoted to educating students and professionals. Faculty and students working with the Center conduct ground-breaking research and serve as an innovative resource for the Hispanic marketing industry. For more information, please visit https://hmc.comm.fsu.edu/

this August.

“Receiving this scholarship is a testament to my dedication to FPRA and my career in public relations. FPRA has already opened so many doors to networking and growth opportunities with other scholars, professionals, and leaders,” said Williams. “I can’t wait to continue building connections at the President’s Luncheon during the FPRA Summit in Tampa in August.” 

Dr. Jay Rayburn, a former FPRA state president in 1994 and member of the year in 1991, worked as a faculty member at Florida State University (FSU) teaching public relations and integrated marketing for 35 years. The $1,500 scholarship was established in his name after his passing in 2021. 

Williams is on the incoming executive board for the student FPRA chapter. “I wanted to grow in my career and meet like-minded peers who share a passion for public relations and communications,” said Williams. “The Student Capital FPRA community offers an unparalleled environment for networking and professional development, which has been instrumental in my college experience.”

With how integral Williams describes FPRA to be in her life, she says it was an easy decision to apply for the Rayburn scholarship, with the guidance of Dr. Elizabeth Ray. She enjoyed learning about Jay Rayburn’s legacy through her application process. “I consider it a great honor to build my career in the footsteps of those who helped create the path. Understanding the depth of his influence at FSU, particularly the long-lasting impact he left on students and the PR profession, has made me appreciate the importance of the strong educational foundation that FSU provides,” she said

Upon receiving the Rayburn Scholarship, Williams directly utilized the money for her study abroad experience in Florence, Italy with FSU IP’s Media & Communication program. There, she collaborated with peers as a Copy Editor for the ItaliaNoles magazine, a student publication produced at the FSU Florence study center each semester.

The Plural Research Scholarship Award is granted to a student by Angie Singh, President and CEO of Plural Publishing, Inc., in honor of her late husband’s legacy. Campbell received notice that she was awarded this honor through a heartfelt letter from Singh thanking her for her dedication and hard work. She emphasized, “Dr. Singh’s emphasis on education and his commitment to supporting groundbreaking research is truly inspiring, and I am humbled to be considered a part of his legacy.”

Campbell is currently engaged in analyzing people’s experiences for a significant research project known as a dissertation. Additionally, she is teaching English in a foreign country as part of the Fulbright Scholar program. She will soon begin a postdoctoral scholar position with the Learning Disabilities Research Consortium in the Florida Center for Reading Research, continuing to lend a hand in increasing language and literacy among children from largely minoritized backgrounds.

Through Florida State’s SCSD doctoral program, Campbell has been provided with a lot of exposure to different avenues in education and provided strategies to address some of the issues individuals face. She utilizes evidence-based tools to study different concerns in systemic and credible ways and says, “Having the opportunity to access so many experts was truly an honor, and I feel like I’ve been trained well to go out and be a collaborative and rigorous researcher in any of the career spaces I may land in”.

Campbell believes this scholarship will impact her in the SCSD doctoral program, as a tremendous financial aid to help her continue to disseminate the findings of her research. Additionally, the scholarship will help Campbell to expand on her findings and be able to better inform the broader community of practitioners within the field of speech language pathology.

Campbell’s determination to utilize her research and findings to improve literacy education within the United States will continue to push in a positive direction upon the support of the 2024 Plural Research Scholarship Award.

For photos from the event, click here. 

CCI congratulates the following student and faculty award recipients: 

Student Leadership Award Recipients: 

Pooja Ichplani (School of Communication)

Emma Summers (School of Communication Science & Disorders)

Lateef Adeshina (School of Information) 

Faculty Leadership Award Recipients: 

Dr. Rachel Bailey (School of Communication) 

Dr. Selena Snowden (School of Communication Science & Disorders)

Dr. Melissa Gross (School of Information) 

The following scholarship recipients were also recognized during this event: 

School of Communication 

School of Communication Science & Disorders 

School of Information 

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program provides students in the United States with a chance to work, live with, and learn from the people of a host country. As a recipient, Campbell will travel to Uruguay in March 2024.

“Uruguay was unique within the Fulbright program in that it gave me access to multiple populations in both urban and rural areas,” Campbell explained. Her research, which focuses on language and literacy among children from largely minoritized backgrounds, benefits from sampling different populations to find differences in instruction.

Ultimately, Campbell’s goal is to use her findings to help improve literacy education here in the United States, where she has witnessed severe educational disparities while working in Title I schools in both Chicago and Jacksonville. Across both cities, she saw many students performing far below their expected reading levels.

“Literacy is a key that opens doors,” Campbell said. “I don’t want anybody to be unable to open a certain door because they don’t have that key.”

Campbell’s time in Uruguay will overlap with her expected graduation date in Spring 2024, at which point she plans to continue her career in improving literacy education in the United States.

“Whether that’s in a faculty position or a Department of Education job, I want to be able to address systemic level issues from a systemic approach,” Campbell said. “I want to help push the needle forward.”

This endowed professorship is dedicated to the life and legacy of Dr. Elfreda Chatman, a former iSchool faculty member and a trailblazer within the field of Information.

“Her work, which explored issues related to information poverty, social contexts and factors of information behavior, and the information practices of underrepresented groups has had an immeasurable impact on the field of Library and Information Science, and has played a transformational role in terms of its focus on social contexts,” said Gary. “She inspired and influenced at least a generation of doctoral students in our program, and that influence has continued to this day. Our School would not be what it is had she not been here.”

Creating an endowed professorship in Elfreda’s honor was personal for Kathy and Gary. Elfreda had served as a mentor to Gary when they started at the iSchool together in 1998, and she had also provided guidance and support to Kathy during the early part of Kathy’s academic career.

Twenty years after Elfreda’s passing, Gary hopes that she will be remembered for two things: “the influence of her research, and the intellectual generosity she always exhibited to her colleagues and her students.”

Kathy and Gary have contributed the lead gift for the endowed professorship, which they hope will continue to grow for years to come. To learn more about the Elfreda Chatman Endowed Professorship, and to make a gift, click here.