Kaitlin E. Phillips, Ph.D.

Education

• Ph.D., Interpersonal, Family, and Intergroup Communication, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
• M.S., Communication Studies, Texas Christian University
• B.S., Communication Studies, Texas Christian University

Courses

• CSS 3311: Interpersonal Communication
• CSS 4313: Family Communication
• CSS 5319: Seminar in Family Communication

Research Interests

My research focuses on the interplay between family and personal identity focusing on how people create family identity and solidarity, and the perceptions of difference in relational quality across family members. Specifically, I focus on how siblings enact communication that both helps and hinders their relationships, and I investigate the role of race/ethnicity in family communication. Currently, I’m investigating how mother’s of color negotiated with relational others what it means to be a safe and health family during the pandemic. My work has been featured in journals such as Journal of Communication, Communication Monographs, and Journal of Family Communication. In addition, I co-authored a well-cited chapter on Communication Theory of Identity in the Engaging Theories in Interpersonal Communication textbook.

Teaching Philosophy

My overarching goal as an instructor is to facilitate dialogue. Throughout my classes, I work to co-construct a learning centered environment with my students, where we are able to discuss challenging topics, and embrace our differences. Students are able to engage in dialogue with me, each other, the content, and hopefully find ways to engage with those in their broader community. In a world where our differences are often used to create more division—family and interpersonal communication competence are critical to our overall wellbeing. I truly believe the quality of our communication is tied to the quality of our lives. Through my assignments and class activities, I work to facilitate an environment where students are comfortable being vulnerable and are also able to connect theory to practice. All of us as teachers recognize both the challenge in teaching and the intrinsic reward that comes with this profession. Teaching in and of itself is a complex process. It is both an art and a science, something beautiful and thought provoking, something immeasurable and quantifiable. As a teacher, I embrace these qualities with the hopes of creating a learning environment that is accessible and challenging.

Professional Service

Prior to joining the Communication Department at Baylor in 2022, I worked as a faculty member at Utah State University for 5 years. Over the years I’ve served in a variety of roles to support the family communication sub-discipline — specifically, Chair of the Family Communication Division at the National Communication Association, Chair of the Future Conferences Committee for the International Association of Relationship Research, Editorial Board member for the Journal of Family Communication, and Editorial Board member for the Journal of Communication Pedagogy.

Family, Outside Hobbies, and Interests

In my free time, you are most likely to find me passing out baked goods! I’m known for bringing chocolate chip cookies with me to academic conferences and passing them out. Baking makes me happy because it allows me to give something sweet to those around me. If I’m not baking, then I’m out for a walk with my dog Logan, or exploring new places!

What is the best thing about being a Baylor Bear?

My favorite thing about being a Baylor Bear is the people! I love the welcoming and inviting community Baylor has cultivated. Students, Faculty, Staff, and the larger Waco Community make Baylor a place that cares about connection. I’m so glad to now be part of the Baylor community.