Matthew G. Gerber, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Educational Background:
- B.A., Communication, Southeastern Oklahoma State University, 1997
- M.A., Communication Studies, Baylor University, 1999
- Ph.D., Communication Studies, University of Kansas, 2005
Research Interests:
My primary research interest is in the area of argumentation theory and criticism, as well as rhetorical criticism. I specialize in the rhetoric of American foreign policy and diplomacy. That said, I am an "eclectic dabbler" in the field of rhetoric, and my latest research project focused on developing a rhetorical perspective towards recovery from autism. That piece will appear in the forthcoming edited volume from the 2015 Alta Conference on Argumentation. I also investigate the intersections of rhetoric, race, and public memory, as reflected in recent published research about the 1921 Tulsa Race Riots, and about the failed clemency rhetoric of Leonard Peltier. Finally, my research interests in any given year are also closely tied to the college debate topic, as I continue to operate as the Director of the Glenn R. Capp Debate Forum, Baylor’s nationally-ranked debate team.
Courses Taught at Baylor (2003-Present):
- Argumentation & Debate
- Advanced Debate
- Contest Speaking
- Small Group Communication
- Legal Communication
- Public Speaking
- Corporate Advocacy & Public Policy
- Graduate Seminar: Rhetoric, Media and Culture
- Graduate Seminar: Public Discourse and American Foreign Policy
- Graduate Seminar: Argumentation Theory
- Graduate Seminar: Politics and Communication
Family, Outside Hobbies, and Interests:
In my limited free time, I enjoy traveling, music (listening to it and playing it), reading, and spending time with my family. I am also a serious college football fan, but I don’t really care for the NFL.
What is the best thing about being a Baylor Bear?
I’ve always enjoyed the strong sense of family around Baylor students, faculty, and alumni. Bears stick together, and we support and protect each other throughout life. The caring community of people at Baylor is a real thing, not just a talking point. It’s also been nice to have witnessed the 'Golden Age' of Baylor sports after having lived through those grim days in the mid-2000s when we didn’t win at anything! Sic 'Em Bears!