Linda Laine, Kenneth J. Weller Distinguished Professor of the Liberal Arts and professor of communication studies at Central College, has been appointed as Faculty Fellow for Interdisciplinary and Faculty-led Programs at the college.

Laine will work with faculty, along with Brian Peterson, associate dean of students, and Mary Strey, vice president for academic affairs and dean of faculty, to support faculty development in interdisciplinary and off-campus programs. Her appointment began August 2021.

“I believe that my background in communication – a discipline that naturally intersects with so many others – is an excellent position from which I can help facilitate the development of these two interrelated arenas,” Laine says. “I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues in the creation of exciting learning opportunities for our students.”

Laine earned her bachelor’s degree with honors in human communication from Abilene Christian University in Abilene, Texas. She completed her master’s degree and Ph.D. in communication at the University of South Florida. Laine has been a Central faculty member since 2004 and was promoted to professor of communication studies in 2018.

As a past recipient of the David Crichton Memorial Teaching Award, Laine has been recognized for her teaching excellence.