I am a (Full) Professor at the Hugh Downs School of Human Communication, 
Arizona State University (Ph.D., Annenberg School for Communication, University of Southern California)

My research interests are in the complex interactions between communication technologies and
different cultural communities around the world. 

My recent projects related to changing knowledge and authority practices examine how clergy and teachers maintain the interest of their students and congregations when the use of mobile and social media is so prevalent.  I am also examining how religious groups use technology to interact and form both local and global spiritual communities.

In the area of strategic communication, I have investigated how communication technologies facilitate the spread of narratives and memes by extremist groups, cyber-vigilantes and rumor-mongers.  My personal interests in innovative pedagogy & mentoring have also led to research projects examining how underserved and youth populations experience multiple digital divides in the learning process. 

I have published more than 80 articles and books and have co-led funded research projects totaling more than US$2 million in awards. My work has been honored with top paper and book awards by the National Communication Association, Western Communication Association, and the International Communication Association. I have been invited to speak in Asia, North America and Europe, and welcome opportunities to travel internationally to teach and share about my work. I am the proud recipient of various teaching awards, including the Zebulon Pearce Distinguished Teacher Award, the highest honor for excellence in teaching in the College of Liberal Arts & Science at ASU. 

Personal Interests

My multicultural background is shaped by my birth in Singapore, working in Los Angeles, London and New York, and travel experiences to more than 30 countries.  I currently reside in Phoenix with my husband, two children and two friendly dogs.