Cheri Ketchum, PhD
Faculty
Biography
Dr. Cheri Ketchum is an Associate Professor overseeing the Communication and Journalism programs in the Global College of Integrative Learning at the University of Arizona Global Campus. She obtained her PhD in Communication from the University of California, San Diego (UCSD) and her Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Broadcast and Electronic Communication Arts from San Francisco State University.
I was born in a town called Marysville, about 40 miles north of Sacramento, California. I was the seventh of seven children, and growing up I was surrounded by positive energy, games, and creativity. I have a distinct memory of there always being obstacle courses set up in our backyard—a low-budget version of the Ninja Warrior competitions you see on TV today. I'm surprised we all survived!
After graduating high school, I attended a local community college before going on to San Francisco State University, where I earned both a Bachelor's and Master's degree in Broadcasting and Electronic Communication Arts. I then moved to San Diego, where I earned a PhD in Communication from the University of California, San Diego.
I have been teaching communication courses since 2000. At first, I taught courses on the relationship between mass media and economics, politics, ideology, and social relationships. Over the past ten years, I have primarily taught COM 200 (Interpersonal Communication), COM 223 (Persuasion in Communication), and COM 325 (Communication & Conflict). Teaching these courses has reaffirmed my belief that communication is one of the building blocks of both individuality and society. I genuinely believe these courses can transform students' lives—all involve self-reflection and apply to both personal and professional growth. My greatest joy is when I receive emails from students saying the course had a powerful impact on them.
Currently, I live in Henderson, Nevada, right outside of Las Vegas. While you may occasionally find me in a casino, you’re more likely to see me spending time with my dog in a park or traveling to beautiful places, near and far.