Ahmet Aksoy

Educational Background

• PhD: Media and Communication | Texas Tech University (2022)
• MA: Media and Public Relations | Newcastle University (2012)
• BA: Communication | East Carolina University (2010)

Personal Statement

I am grateful to be a part of the faculty at Winona State University. Since my arrival in Winona, I have come to truly understand and appreciate the culture of “Minnesota Nice,” feeling the warm and welcoming nature of the community.

I have a deep appreciation for connecting with people from diverse backgrounds and finding great joy in learning about different cultures. These interactions continually broaden my perspective and enrich both my personal and professional life.

Whether through travel, teaching, or collaboration, I value the opportunity to engage with others and foster mutual understanding across cultural lines, especially with a cup of coffee. As the Turkish proverb states, “The heart seeks neither coffee nor the coffeehouse. The heart wants conversation and friendship; coffee’s an excuse,” serves as a symbol of my Turkish hospitality and philosophy in life.

When I am not teaching or researching, I enjoy being with my loving family and our 3 dogs. As a family, we enjoy embarking on adventures, whether it be the local outdoors or a new country. I am an avid fan of European Football (U.S. soccer) and find myself rooting for my Turkish club, Fenerbahçe, and my wife’s Mexican club, Cruz Azul.

Professional Statement

My academic journey began with the completion of my doctorate studies in media and communication at Texas Tech University, followed by appointments as a faculty member at Columbia College and Universidad Panamericana. Before my role as a faculty member, I spent 4 years working in higher education administration, developing programs in academic advising, mentoring, multicultural affairs, parent and family involvement, and student organizations.

In the profession of communication, I served as a communication specialist for Houston Community College and the Newcastle City Council, where I aided in the construction and delivery of digital messages and content for both entities. Over the years, I have been fortunate to collaborate with interdisciplinary teams and contribute to projects addressing how cultural identities are shaped and communicated within society. Some of my work can be found in the “Journal of Intercultural Communication Research,” “Journal of Media and Religion,” “Communication Teacher,” and “Review of Communication.”

Teaching is a core part of my professional identity. I am committed to creating an inclusive and engaging learning environment where students are encouraged to think critically, ask questions, and apply their knowledge in meaningful ways. Past students have expressed the value of my teaching and mentoring, and as a result, I have been recognized nationally and regionally for my dedication to student success in and outside of the classroom.

Beyond my academic responsibilities, I am actively involved with the Central States Communication Association and Quality Matters. Through my teaching, research, and service, I aim to advance the knowledge of intercultural communication and communication pedagogy.  

Courses Taught

• CMST 191: Introduction to Public Speaking
• CMST 291: Intercultural Communication
• CMST 321: Conflict and Communication

Awards & Recognition

• The Mônica Pombo Early Career Teaching Award | Carolinas Communication Association (2024)
• Pearson and Nelson Outstanding New Teacher Award | Central States Communication Association (2024)
• Support & Guidance Mentor Award | Lauro Cavazos & Ophelia Powell-Malone Mentoring Program (2022)