April 24: Second Annual Faculty Research Spotlight – Dr. Wen Zhao – Hosted by the Department of Communication

The Department of Communication Presents

Faculty Research Spotlight:

Fairfield University’s Department of Communication is hosting its second annual Faculty Research Spotlight on Thursday, April 24 at 3:30 pm. This is an exciting and unique opportunity for the campus community to learn about research by one of Fairfield’s own, Dr. Wen Zhao. Dr. Zhao is the Director of Public Relations and an Associate Professor in the Department of Communication with an affiliation in the Asian Studies Program. Dr. Zhao has been selected to discuss her research topic titled, “Consumer Responses to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Communication.” 

In this talk, Dr. Zhao delves into how consumers react to corporate social responsibility (CSR) messaging on emerging media platforms, including virtual reality. Bridging theory and practice, her research shows how insights from strategic communication can inform real-world strategy—guiding how organizations build trust, engage audiences, and craft messages that resonate in today’s fast-evolving digital landscape.

In addition to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Communication, Dr. Zhao’s research focus includes social media analytics and emerging media technologies. Dr. Zhao’s work has been published in leading strategic communication journals, including Computers in Human Behavior, Social Science Computer Review, Journal of Current Issues & Research in Advertising, Atlantic Journal of Communication, and Journalism Practice, among others. Her contributions have earned top paper awards from the National Communication Association (NCA), the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC), and the Eastern Communication Association (ECA). She earned a Ph.D. in Communication from Washington State University and a Master’s degree from Florida State University. Before academia, Dr. Zhao worked extensively in public relations and marketing communications, focusing on socially responsible initiatives across various organizations.

As an educator, Dr. Zhao is deeply committed to community engagement and experiential learning. Her collaborations with the local community—such as the Age-Friendly Research Project with the Town of Fairfield—and partnerships with numerous local nonprofits, including the Connecticut Audubon Society, Fairfield Chamber of Commerce, Fairfield Senior Advocates, Caroline House, Fairfield Museum and History Center, and The Mill River Wetland Committee, demonstrate her dedication to extending learning beyond the classroom. Through these initiatives, Dr. Zhao facilitates meaningful student involvement in diverse community settings, fostering both academic growth and civic responsibility.

Hope you can join us Thursday, April 24 at 3:30 pm! 

Dessert and refreshments will be served.