Kelly Williams Nagel, Ph.D.

Education

• Ph.D., Communication Arts and Sciences (Rhetoric), Penn State University
• M.A., Communication Studies (Rhetoric), Baylor University
• B.A., International Relations and Global Studies, The University of Texas at Austin

Courses

• CSS 1302: Public Speaking for Business and Professional Students
• CSS 3302: Introduction to Rhetorical Theory and Criticism
• CSS 3316: Persuasion 
• CSS 4321: Rhetoric of Public Memory

Teaching Philosophy

The classroom is where I strive to cultivate critical thinking, create camaraderie between students, and foster a comfortable environment where we learn from one another. Additionally, I love making learning an engaging process, and for course content to have a practical application to their everyday lives. For example, I always try to connect ancient and new course content to Baylor history and the student experience here. Moreover, I want students to have confidence in their own voice, whether it is in their career or beyond. Words matter, and I want students to become conscientious citizens who feel connected to their peers and are motivated to build a strong, healthy democratic society.

Research Interests

My primary research exists at the intersections of public memory, visual rhetoric, and rhetorical history. I examine how communities creatively respond to controversial monuments—through protests, removal, temporary art installations, and more. How do we respond to toxic memories? Other areas of research include book bans in the United States, and sports communication.

Family, Outside Hobbies, and Interests

I am a lifelong Wacoan, and I am so happy to be a resident again after five years in Pennsylvania. My husband, Jeff, and I love watching Waco continue to grow and exploring all the new restaurants and activities in town with our friends and family. While I am a homebody, you can almost always find me at Fabled Bookshop, Pinewood, or Central Goods. When at home, I love to garden, read, crochet, and Jeff and I watch all Texas Longhorns and Ohio State games (though we do also cheer on the Bears!), and Dimension 20. 

What is the best thing about being a Baylor Bear?

The Communication Department! Every faculty member in this department is outstanding and strives to create the best learning atmosphere for students, and I love being part of this team. It is so exciting to be back and roaming the hallways from my time as a graduate student here. Meeting our students and watching them grow over the course of their education is the most rewarding experience.