Tanya R. Cochran, PhD, joined the faculty at Union College in July 2005 and finished her doctoral studies in Rhetoric and Composition at Georgia State University in Atlanta, GA, in December 2009. Dr. Cochran teaches a range of courses in both the English and Communication programs, from general education writing (ENGL 110 and 212), speaking (COMM 105), and introduction to mass communication (COMM 125) courses to upper-division offerings such as COMM 333, Rhetoric and COMM 465, Interpersonal Communication. She also serves as Writing Program Administrator, directs Union's Studio for Writing and Speaking, and organizes the Union College Board of Trustees Writing Awards.
Her doctoral coursework focused on composition studies, the history of rhetoric, writing centers, and the intersection of faith and learning. Her dissertation _Toward a Rhetoric of Scholar-Fandom_ allowed her to return to her first loves (rhetoric, audience, and media studies) by exploring the scholar-fan community interested in the works of auteur Joss Whedon. Ongoing research and publication topics include fan activism, media paratexts, and narratology.

D. Gregory Dunn is a seasoned crisis communications counselor with deep experience in major international, as well as boutique, public relations firms. Dunn began working with Kurth Lampe Worldwide in 2015 to effectively leverage his diverse background in helping corporate clients, non-profits, and faith-based groups tell their stories, build their reputations, increase sales, and manage through crisis situations.
Prior to working with Kurth Lampe, Dunn’s work included establishing a Chicago office for a national public relations agency, as well as a decade with one of the world’s largest public relations agencies. Dunn has served as client leader for several of the firm’s major clients, while also supporting other clients in the areas of executive positioning, branding, corporate social responsibility, internal communications, and crisis preparedness and issues management. Dunn has provided counsel on a range of crisis assignments, including AIG – beginning in October 2008, he was a key part of the team engaged to support the world’s leading insurance organization as it fought for survival at the peak of the U.S. financial system crisis.

Lynn Hanessian is the Chief Strategist for Edelman. In her position, she brings together industry, content, and media expertise to craft multi- stakeholder campaigns to support the success of clients. Integration and coordination across marketing, communications and policy initiatives are hallmarks of campaigns led and counsel provided by Lynn. She has a deep background in health, medical and science strategic positioning, and communication working with hospitals and health systems; payers; biopharmaceutical, medical device and healthcare tech companies; innovation centers; medical societies; and patient advocacy groups.

She designs and leads public awareness campaigns that span integrated marketing, communications, advocacy relations, professional society engagement, and corporate reputation priorities.Lynn has guided issues preparedness and crisis response efforts. Lynn is a C-suite counselor on executive positioning and visibility effort across media channels. Thought leader engagement and patient advocacy collaboration are also among her areas of focus. Across her tenure at Daniel J. Edelman, Inc, she has led business units and agency operation; developed new offerings based on client needs; and advanced firm-wide intellectual property.

Lynn has a long history of volunteer leadership involvement with the patient advocacy community. She is a board member for the Center for Healthcare Innovation as well as the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America. She earned an AB in economics from the University of Chicago.

Matt Webster is the Producer & Director of Studio Operations for the Center for Media Ministry at Walla Walla University. In his position, Matt creates connections in the film industry to bring projects and mentorship to the students of Walla Walla University pursuing Film & Digital Communication degrees. He brings with him a strong background of logistical planning and film education, which has lead to the completion of "Color of Threads", the first professional film collaboration for the Center for Media Ministry, and to the University naming him the Rising Staff Member of the Year in Spring 2024.

Before arriving at Walla Walla University in 2022, Matt taught and built one of the first film focused high school curriculums in Adventist Education at Hawaiian Mission Academy. Throughout his six years at HMA, his students were recognized for achievements in production, best in festival awards, and being named finalists for best in the State of Hawaii.

Matt holds a M.A. in Cinema, Religion & Worldview from Walla Walla University and a B.S. in Film Production from Southern Adventist University.

Daughter of missionary parents, Dr. Jo Ann Davidson is also a fourth generation Seventh-day Adventist. She recalls her mother saying to her, "the blessings of being a Seventh-day Adventist have surely seeped into your genes and chromosomes by now!" Formerly a home schooling mom and music instructor, Jo Ann is currently a senior research professor in the Andrews University Theological Seminary.

The first woman to teach in the Theology department, she earned her Ph.D. in Systematic Theology from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School (Deerfield, Ill.) in 2000. Articles she has written have appeared in the Adventist Review, Signs of the Times, Journal of the Adventist Theological Society, and Andrews University Seminary Studies, along with a column, "Let's Face It," in the journal Perspective Digest. She has contributed chapters to several books, and also authored the books Jonah: The Inside Story (Review and Herald), Toward a Theology of Beauty: A Biblical Perspective (University Press of America), and Glimpses of Our God (Pacific Press). Jo Ann finds great fulfillment in her many roles as wife, mother, daughter, sister, auntie, teacher, musician, student and Seventh-day Adventist Christian. 

Kevin Lampe is an internationally recognized expert in political, media, and communications strategies. “Ideas, Delivered” is the mission of Kurth Lampe Worldwide, where Kevin is the executive vice president. He has developed and directed the delivery of his client’s complicated messages to a variety of audiences. Kevin is an expert in political consulting; crisis management and communications; litigation support; public relations and messaging.

Ernesto Hernandez, Media Director at the Washington Conference, is a UCLA graduate in Film Production with a minor in Photojournalism. His foundation in storytelling, strengthened by mentors from Paramount Pictures, Sony Pictures, the LA Times, NY Times, and National Geographic, has given rise to a myriad of experiences, from directing short films to innovating media initiatives in the Adventist church. Today, he's at the forefront of integrating emerging technologies into ministry, exploring the depths of Virtual Reality, AI, and Immersive Reality.
As an AI integration consultant, he collaborates with global institutions like Andrews University and the University of Montemorelos to develop future-focused AI programs. Passionate about merging technology with traditional media, Ernesto's vision is to leverage these tools, ensuring the church reaches new horizons and connects deeply with communities in our ever-evolving digital age.

Paulette Gates is a producer, filmmaker, and television professional who serves as an Assistant Professor of Communication and Program Coordinator for Film and Television Production at Oakwood University. An alumna of Oakwood, she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Communication with a minor in Theology and later completed her Master of Arts in Film and Television from Regent University.

With 15 years of industry experience, Paulette has held various roles with notable organizations such as OUBN, ABC, NBC, and Hope Channel while collaborating with Breath of Life Ministries at the Oakwood University Church over the years. Under her leadership and executive producing, Oakwood’s Film and Television program has achieved remarkable success, with students winning over 40 awards in the past three years, including recognition at prestigious local and international festivals.

Paulette is dedicated to mentoring the next generation of creative professionals, encouraging students to embrace their unique perspectives and authenticity in storytelling. Notable projects include the impactful documentaries “The Man Who Killed Jim Crow” and “Both Sides of the Fence,” along with thought-provoking short films such as “This Time, It’s Personal,” “Words Have Power,” “Pics,” and the charming “The Question.”

Beyond her teaching, she aims to develop a mentorship program for high school students interested in media, believing that true success comes from empowering others: "Success is not so much about you, but about how many people are better off because you lived." - Bill Britt.

Don Martin maintains a private practice in broadcast and media law in the Washington, D.C. area. For several decades, his practice has been concentrated in broadcasting and related intellectual property matters before agencies such as the Federal Communications Commission, the United States Patent & Trademark Office, the United States Copyright Office, and the Federal Courts. He represents and advises clients throughout the nation with respect to legal issues affecting radio and television broadcasters, including copyright and trademarks. Many Seventh-day Adventist broadcast and media ministries, both church-owned and independent, are numbered among his clients.
Prior to entering private practice, Don served as Regulatory Affairs Counsel at National Public Radio, in Washington, D.C. His responsibilities there included representing the public radio system before the FCC and in Congress. Before becoming an attorney, Don was employed in radio station management as general manager at WGTS-FM, on the campus of Columbia Union College (now Washington Adventist University), Takoma Park, Maryland.
Don holds a B.A. degree with a double major in Religion and Communications from Columbia Union College (now Washington Adventist University) , Takoma Park, Maryland; an M.A. degree in Radio/TV/Film from the University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland; and a J.D. degree from the Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C.

Kirk R. Nugent knows that a former Missionary and Information Technology Executive is not the first thing that comes to mind when individuals think of an online video coach and content creator, yet, he is used to reprogramming the ideals of status quo expectations.
After earning his BS in Engineering Technology from Andrews University, the native Floridian used his skills as a computer technician for NASA, Director of IT at Wallace State Community College, Chief Information Officer at Oakwood University, and IT Director for the Southern Africa Indian Ocean Division of Seventh-day Adventists headquartered in Pretoria, South Africa. Although he excelled at these and many other positions, he soon realized that his calling was steering him in a more hands-on approach to helping others.
Following his passion to help small businesses, entrepreneurs, and faith-based entities, Kirk and his wife started Komposition, LLC, a web design and online video strategy company. Kirk refuses to shy away from using his platform to connect technology and his unwavering faith in God, whom he calls, "the Ultimate Content Creator.” This unique correlation has taken him to speaking engagements and workshops worldwide, earning him the nickname, the Geek Speaker Preacher. Navigating social media and technology with precision-like proficiency, he has become a reliable source for large corporations, small churches, and individuals who want to leverage online video the right way.

Dr. Rita Mitchell, CEO, and Dr. Mirthell Mitchell, COO, are the founders of Onyx Star Media LLC. Together with their four children, they are known as the highly popular Onyx Family, with a collective social media following of 8 million subscribers and over 5 billion views across platforms such as YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Their content is also available on multiple streaming platforms, including Amazon Prime, Hulu, Peacock, and Disney+.

 Rita is an accomplished academic and a successful entrepreneur. As the creator and visionary behind the brand, she meticulously manages the business to ensure smooth operations and strategic growth. She holds a Doctorate in Humanities, a Master of Science in Family Nurse Practitioner, and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, highlighting her dedication to business, education, and healthcare. She continues to inspire and uplift audiences globally.

 Mirthell also holds a Doctorate in Humanities, a Master of Divinity, a Master's of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy, and a Bachelor of Arts in Theology, reflecting his deep commitment to faith and family. With over twenty years of experience as an ordained minister and a marriage and family educator, he brings a wealth of expertise to the family’s values-driven brand. Under his operational leadership, the Onyx Family lives out their mission to “tell the story, feed the soul, make them laugh, heal the heart.”

Bryant Taylor, an evangelist and virtual media compass, found his love for technology after dismantling his grandmother’s transistor radio to see how it worked. Encouraged to put it back together, he learned how on and off switches could enhance people's lives.
After answering a call to the ministry, he became purposeful in finding ways to deliver The Gospel message to areas beyond his immediate congregation. As an associate editor and published columnist, Bryant positioned himself at the intersection of ministry and media, unknowingly preparing to guide churches and corporations through one of their toughest times. In the throes of the pandemic, he expertly navigated, tutored, and troubleshot those who were lost in an era where technology was their only option.
As the Communication Director and Southern Tidings editor for the Southern Union Conference, Bryant champions the transmission of the gospel through developing digital disciples, merging his calling to preach and his passion for tech into a beautiful marriage for success.

Daniel Weber is an assistant professor at Andrews University and serves as the Chair of the Department of Visual Art, Communication and Design. He teaches classes in film, communication and photography. Prior to coming to Andrews in 2021, Daniel served as the Communication Director of the North American Division, overseeing a team of communicators that managed the internal and external communication for the North American headquarters of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church. Daniel has also served at the General Conference of Seventh-day Adventists in the mission office and at the Hope Channel television network. He has more than 35 years experience in the communication field and loves sharing his experiences with his students.

Inspired by her maternal grandfather, Emily Harding became interested in art at a young age, following in his footsteps as an illustrator, photographer, and designer. She graduated from Andrews University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. While at Andrews, Emily enjoyed classes in fine art, photography, and graphic design. Her career as a graphic designer and illustrator has included working for the Review and Herald publishing house and ADRA International, as well as 14 years running her own graphic design business. She is currently the graphic design manager in the Marketing and University Relations department at Southern Adventist University. 

Costin Jordache serves as Vice President of System Strategy and Brand Development for Adventist HealthCare, a healthcare system operating in Maryland and Washington DC. In his role, Costin oversees strategic planning and development, as well as public relations, marketing and communication for the healthcare system. Over the last 25 years, he has served in leadership roles including News Editor for Adventist Review and Adventist World magazines, Vice President for Communication in the Central California Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Director of Communication in the Texas Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Pastor for Media at the Loma Linda University Church and Senior Pastor of the Dallas First Church. Costin holds a Masters degree in Radio, Television & Film from the University of Texas at Austin as well as an MBA from California State University, along with a BA in Theology and Biblical Languages from Southwestern Adventist University. Costin is accredited in Public Relations by the Public Relations Society of America. He specializes in strategic communication and media leadership, public relations, teaching, strategic planning and organizational leadership. 

With over 25 years of experience, Ronald Pollard is a nationally and internationally published portrait and commercial photographer known for his passion for capturing the essence of people, places, and events. His work has been commissioned by prominent organizations such as BET, the White House Press Corps, the Grammy’s, Macy's, and the North American Music Merchants (N.A.A.M.), among others. He has photographed two U.S. presidents—George W. Bush and Barack Obama—and iconic figures like civil rights leader John Lewis. His portfolio also includes musical legends such as Kirk Franklin and Chaka Khan, as well as actor and comedian Katt Williams. Recognized for his expertise, Ronald is verified by Nikon Professional Services and is an active member of the Wedding & Portrait Photographers International (WPPI), Professional Photographers of America (PPA), and the National Press Photographers Association (NPPA). In addition to his photography work, he is a dedicated mentor, training future photographers and speaking on the art of capturing timeless moments. Based in the South/Southeast, he continues to pursue creative projects while sharing his knowledge with the next generation of visual storytellers.

Savannah Carlson is the Communication and Human Resources Director for the Minnesota Conference. She received two bachelor degrees focused on journalism, marketing and public relations from Union Adventist University, formerly Union College. Carlson has been serving in the communication department for 8 years; four of those years as director. She is married to Andy Carlson, and together they have three children, Violet (6), Maxwell (2) and Elluin (2).

Carolina Anthony is a results-driven digital marketing executive with a passion for driving business growth through strategic content, social media, reputation management, web marketing, SEO, email marketing, paid media, creative, and building high-performing teams. With a keen eye for digital trends and a dedication to creating a culture of innovation, She has consistently delivered impactful campaigns that elevate brands and engage audiences. A self-proclaimed culture champion, Carolina recognizes the importance of motivating talented individuals & creating collaborative and inclusive work environments. By fostering innovation, continuous learning, and adaptability, she empowers teams to stay ahead of trends and drive exceptional results.

Dewey Murdick is the Executive Director at Georgetown’s Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET), where he oversees daily operations and fosters relationships with leaders from government, philanthropies, foundations, and industry. Specializing in AI policy, emerging technology analysis, decision support, and technology foresight, Dewey advises U.S. and international policymakers and organizations. Prior to joining CSET as its founding Director of Data Science, he was the Director of Science Analytics at the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, where he led metric development, data science, and machine learning and statistical research for scientist-facing products and science-related initiatives.

Dewey served as Chief Analytics Officer and Deputy Chief Scientist within the Department of Homeland Security, where he had a key oversight role in the department’s research and development portfolio. At the Intelligence Advanced Research Projects Activity (IARPA), he co-founded an office in anticipatory intelligence and led programs in high-risk, high-payoff research in support of national security missions. He has also held positions in intelligence analysis, research, software development, and contract teaching. He holds a Ph.D. in Engineering Physics from the University of Virginia and a B.S. in Physics from Andrews University.

Wintley Phipps is a pastor, world-renowned vocal artist, motivational speaker, and education activist.  He is the founder and president of the U.S. Dream Academy, Inc., a national after-school program that aims to break the cycle of intergenerational incarceration by giving children the skills and vision necessary to explore and expand their potential to lead productive and fulfilling lives. Since 1998, the U.S. Dream Academy has served nearly 12,000 children living in neighborhoods harmed by high rates of incarceration.  

Bekah Stolhandske McNeel is a native of San Antonio, Texas, where she works as a journalist. Her work has appeared in Texas Monthly, Sojourners, The Guardian, Christianity Today, and the Christian Science Monitor, among others. She published her first book, Bringing Up Kids When Church Lets You Down: A Guide for Parents Questioning their Faith with Eerdmans in 2022; and her second This is Going to Hurt: Following Jesus in a Divided America, also with Eerdmans in 2024. Known for her ability to communicate the high stakes of politics and policy and bring clarity to complex systems, Bekah keeps the human beings most affected at the front of her coverage. Bekah is a graduate of the London School of Economics, where she earned a MSc in Media Studies. She is married to Lewis McNeel, an architect with Lake | Flato. They have two young children who, while they do not yet have careers, are very busy.