The People Behind KSCI

Jacqueline Wegley in an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communications and Agricultural Education. Her research focuses in part on the science of science communication. Her most recent work explores scientists' experiences participating in digital science outreach opportunities and the role of trust in science communication and science engagement. She presents her work both nationally and internationally and is excited to continue to grow the interdisciplinary, collaborative efforts and programming offered by KSCI.

Tom Hallaq is an Associate Professor in the A.Q. Miller School of Media and Communication and had an integral role in the founding of KSCI. His professional background is in live television producing and directing. Dr. Hallaq earned his Bachelors of Arts (B.A.) degree in Communications from Brigham Young University, his Master's of Education (M.Ed.) in Instructional Media and Technology from Eastern Washington University and a Doctorate of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership/ Instructional Methods and Design from Idaho State University where he was also on the faculty as an Assistant Professor. He comes to Kansas State University with more than 14 years teaching experience. His research interests include media literacy, cultural effects of media, and broadcast history. He also has interests in the impact of religious influence on news reporting.

Megan Miller is the Assistant Director for Student Success at K-State. Originally from Pueblo, Colorado, Megan began her role as the Graduate School's Student Success Coordinator in August 2014. She also worked as a graduate assistant for the Graduate School while pursuing her master's of science and PhD in psychology, completed at K-State in 2009 and 2014, respectively.

Dr. Starzec is an Assistant Professor of agricultural communications and journalism. Her teaching areas are environmental communication, strategic communication, and principles of layout and design. With a background in natural resource management related to water and soil, Dr. Starzec’s extension appointment revolves around communication strategies for environmental and conservation efforts, including communication’s role in landowner decision-making; outreach strategies for watershed management; and partnerships in natural resource conservation.