Lauren Fattlar Represents Ashland University's Department of Communication Studies at Regional Conference

2015 Apr 29

The Ashland University Department of Communication Studies made a strong showing at the 106th annual Eastern Communication Association (ECA) conference this past weekend in Philadelphia, Pa.

ECA is the nation's regional conference in communication that has a history of achievement in research, criticism, communication, theory and excellence in teaching. It is the oldest professional communication association in the United States.

This year, seven students represented the Ashland University department, and six of them presented research done in classes at Ashland. Students who presented created posters to outline their research on a number of different topics including sports, gender identity and cancer research.

"Presenting research at conferences is a vital teaching tool and professional experience for students. The skills they develop directly correlate to securing professional positions upon graduation, said Dr. Theodore Avtgis, chair of the department. "The AU Department of Communication emphasizes a culture of scholarship that translates to Ashland University students and faculty being well represented at state, regional and national conferences."

Lauren Fattlar, a graduate of Westlake High School in Westlake, Ohio, who is a senior triple majoring in health and risk communication, public relations and strategic communication and sport communication. Her presentation was titled, "Exploring Perceptions of Lung Cancer and Peritoneal Mesothelioma: Initial Campaign Design."

Ashland University is a mid-sized, private university conveniently located a short distance from Akron, Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio. Ashland University (www.ashland.edu) values the individual student and offers a unique educational experience that combines the challenge of strong, applied academic programs with a faculty and staff who build nurturing relationships with their students.