Welcome new faculty to Appalachian State University's Department of Communication! Read to learn about our new faculty members.
Elyse Rose
Originally from Pensacola, FL, Elyse Rose joined the Department of Communication after completing her graduate studies at the University of West Florida, where she earned a Masters in Strategic Communication and Leadership. During her time at UWF, Rose served for two years as a graduate assistant coach for the university’s Speech and Debate Team. In this role, Rose coached students across multiple competitive events, guiding several to national-level recognition in events such as prose persuasive, and impromptu speaking.
Rose joins the Department of Communication as the Assistant Director of Forensics and Lecturer.
Glen Flanagan
Glen Flanagan is a communications professional with more than a decade of experience in the field. His work has spanned newspaper journalism, government communications, and SEO affiliate content. In his role at Fortune Media, Glen leads a team of affiliate commerce writers as they craft articles on personal finance and health topics. He earned his M.A. in technical and professional communication from East Carolina University and his B.A. in journalism from Radford University. In his spare time he can often be found listening to The Lord of the Rings trilogy on audiobook, smoking a tri-tip roast low and slow over applewood, or working his way through a guitar lesson on YouTube.
Flanagan joins the Department of Communication as Adjunct Faculty for digital journalism.
Dr. Shelby Rios
Shelby Rios, Ph.D. (she/her), is an Appalachian State alumna with expertise in public relations, advocacy, and editorial practice. She currently works in editorial at McFarland Publishing, supporting the development of scholarly and nonfiction titles. She earned her Ph.D. in Communication and Information from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville where her research focused on public information, social media, and advocacy. Shelby has co-authored multiple peer‑reviewed publications and brings a student‑centered approach to teaching. She is committed to fostering inclusive, practical learning experiences that help students build confidence and real‑world skills. Her professional experience spans higher education, athletics, publishing, and nonprofit organizations.
Dr. Rios joins the Department of Communication as Adjunct Faculty for communication studies.