Leslie A. Hahner, Ph.D.

Education

• B.A., Organizational Communication, Central Missouri State University
• M.A., Communication Studies (Rhetorical Studies), The University of Iowa
• Ph.D., Communication Studies (Rhetorical Studies), The University of Iowa

Courses

• CSS 3302: Introduction to Rhetorical Theory and Criticism
• CSS 3395: Visual Communication
• CSS 4350: Rhetoric of Women and Gender
• CSS 4395: Visual Rhetoric
• CSS 5341: Rhetoric and Cultural Studies

Research Interests

Broadly speaking, I am a scholar trained to interrogate how rhetoric shapes public culture. My research primarily focuses on how visual texts shape the tastes and values of culture, often by engaging the work of rhetorical form, style, and argument. I believe that such research helps us to better understand the ways rhetoric moves audiences and the formation of public sensibilities. My work has appeared in numerous communication outlets, including Argumentation & Advocacy, Critical Studies in Media Communication, The Quarterly Journal of Speech, Rhetoric & Public Affairs, and Communication and Critical/Cultural Studies.

Teaching Philosophy

I teach a number of different courses at Baylor including Advanced Public Speaking, Introduction to Rhetorical Theory and Criticism, Persuasion and Communication, Rhetoric and Contemporary Culture, Introduction to Visual Culture, and Visual Rhetoric. On my view, the college classroom should be a place where students are encouraged to think for themselves. My own approach to teaching is to promote critical interrogation of rhetorical messages while simultaneously teaching students how to be compelling rhetors. I find that once students learn how to analyze and create rhetorical texts, they are able to think in new ways and find an outlet for their own advocacies. Sometimes this work can feel quite challenging, but the payoff is worth it.

Service

I am a member of the Women’s and Gender Studies Advisory Board and the Graduate Curriculum Committee here at Baylor University, among other service roles at Baylor. I am currently a board member at Truth Bomb Social and consult on digital advocacy and education practices for a variety of institutions and organizations. I am an active member of my local congregation and have served in various ministries. In the community, I have previously helped the Waco Diaper Bank as a board member, and I continue to work with local nonprofits as I am available. I regularly deliver public lectures and public-facing scholarship designed to translate academic insights to broader audiences. I have written statements for congressional hearings, and been an expert in demand for news organizations, with appearances on BBC World News, CNN, and in The Atlantic, and more.

Family, Outside Hobbies, and Interests

When I am not working, I love to spend time with my family. I also adore long-distance running, experiments in the kitchen, and reading as many books as I can devour.

What is the best thing about being a Baylor Bear?

Baylor is such a unique and wonderful university. Life as a Baylor bear emphasizes connections among and support for students, faculty, and staff. This is a place where community and ethics come together to create a commitment to bettering the world and to caring for one another. Baylor is an incredible place that I am proud to call home.