Faculty Spotlight
John Nicholson
by: Greta Allen, PR student intern
John Nicholson, a Memphis native, joined the MSU Department of Communication in the fall of 2008. During his time so far here at MSU, he has taught Communication Theory at the introductory and graduate level. He has also taught Nonverbal, Interpersonal and Small Group Communication. Dr. Nicholson received a bachelor’s degree in communication in 1992 at the University of Memphis. In 1993, he returned and received a master’s degree in communication. From there, he received a Ph.D. in communication from the University of Iowa in 1998.
Dr. Nicholson’s favorite part about working in the communication field is being able to help people develop skills and insights that touch all parts of their lives—both personal and professional.
“John Nicholson has served CO admirably for more than a dozen years. He is a senior leader in the department. He teaches a wide array of courses from Intro to Communication Theory, Advanced Communication Theory, Political Communication, Nonverbal Communication, and Small Group Communication. He was instrumental in spearheading our efforts to launch a graduate program. He is now teaching one of the required courses, Communication Theory, in the MSU communication master’s program. Nicholson is passionate about his teaching and is a helpful mentor to new faculty. He has an engaging style in the classroom that students appreciate via comments like this, ‘I would recommend his classes to anyone here at MSU. I learned a lot about communication and got more insight into everyday life. A great professor and great course,’” said Dr. Terry Likes, head of the MSU Department of Communication.
Favorite memory in the Department of Communication?
Receiving get-well-soon wishes from students when I was ill. They were so sweet!
Best advice for communication students?
Go to class and be engaged!
Any funny stories from McComas?
When moving into my office years ago, I had to remove 2 couches, 2 giant library tables, and a jumbo desk.
If you didn’t work in communication, what could you see yourself doing?
Either teaching or training at FedEx.
Favorite part of being a professor?
Getting to constantly learn.
If you could only watch one film for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
Ford Versus Ferrari - it is my current favorite. It has so many interesting relationships and tensions. There’s a lot packed into that film!
What's your favorite spot in Starkville?
My carport workshop!
How do you spend your free time?
Woodworking and watching loads of television.
Do you have human or furry children?
My wife Elizabeth and I have 3 children and 2 indoor dogs.
What is your favorite location you have ever traveled to and why?
I spent a summer in Northern California at the JH Ranch. Beautiful mountains, valleys, rivers streams, and lakes… and any beach!