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Rachel Winter, communication studies lecturer and director of the master’s in strategic communication at Rollins, is the Florida Communication Association’s 2024 Teacher of the Year. The award recognizes an educator who prioritizes inclusivity, accessibility, innovation, creativity, and impact in their courses.

In her nomination letter, Anne Stone, communication professor and faculty director of the Social Impact Hub, described several innovative activities Winter facilitates with her students, including a “Choose Your Own PR Adventure” activity for her undergraduate Contemporary PR course that asks students to apply course concepts and then reflect on their experience on a class discussion board.

Communication professor David Painter, a key member of the team who developed the master’s in strategic communication at Rollins, described examples of Winter incorporating case studies from the Society of Professional Journalists and Public Relations Society of America that focus on current industry practices to ensure her students are well prepared for the challenges they will face in their future careers.

Kylie Smith ’25 ’26MASC, a current student pursuing an undergraduate degree in communication studies and taking advanced courses in strategic communication as part of the Accelerated Master’s Program, shared that Winter reinvigorated her love of learning.

The FCA aims to coordinate the efforts of teachers, students, and others interested in advancing the communication arts and sciences in the state of Florida. Since 1930, the annual FCA Convention has invited communication scholars, students, and practitioners from Florida and beyond to present their work and engage in meaningful dialogue.

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