Missouri School of Journalism professor Shelly Rodgers named Curators’ Distinguished Professor
Rodgers is the first J-School professor in 21 years to receive this distinction
COUMBIA, Mo. (Nov. 7, 2024) — Shelly Rodgers, the Maxine Wilson Gregory chair in journalism research at the Missouri School of Journalism, has been named a Curators’ Distinguished Professor. The prestigious, system-wide honor is the highest academic rank bestowed by the University of Missouri Board of Curators and goes to only a few scholars with excellent reputations each year.
Rodgers is only the second School of Journalism faculty member to earn the honor since its inception in 1970; the first, Betty Winfield, retired in 2011 after 21 years at the School and is now a Curators’ Distinguished Professor Emeritus.
“Shelly’s accomplishments as a researcher, teacher and mentor at the School of Journalism are deserving of the highest recognition,” said David Kurpius, dean of the School. “Her work shows colleagues and students what is possible and shows the industry the innovative path forward in advertising and health communication.”
Rodgers said the honor came as a “wonderful surprise,” as she hadn’t known she was nominated.
This honor is deeply meaningful for our J-School community, and I’m incredibly humbled to join the distinguished ranks of visionaries like Betty Winfield who have paved the way.
Shelly Rodgers
“This honor is deeply meaningful for our J-School community, and I’m incredibly humbled to join the distinguished ranks of visionaries like Betty Winfield who have paved the way,” Rodgers said. “I am immensely grateful to the Board of Curators, President Choi, Dean Kurpius and my colleagues for their unwavering support and belief in our work’s impact.”
She added that the Curators’ Distinguished Professor distinction is more than a form of recognition; its prominence will create new opportunities for professional collaborations and amplify her efforts to bridge scientific research with community impact.
“This role offers an expanded platform and opens doors, which is energizing,” Rodgers said. “I’m excited to build on programs like the Gregory Scholars and extend our reach, creating meaningful, positive change for Missourians and beyond. The possibilities ahead are truly inspiring.”
The Gregory Scholars program, now in its third year, offers undergraduate and graduate students at Mizzou hands-on research experience, covering impactful topics like science and health communication, advertising and related social issues.
It’s a passion project for Rodgers, for whom this newest distinction is the latest in a long succession of prestigious awards, including an International Communication Association Fellowship, a Kemper Fellowship for Teaching Excellence and a host of other honors for research, teaching and career achievement.
To learn more about Rodgers’ work, click here.
Updated: November 7, 2024