Press Room

(Washington, DC)—More than 3,000 Communication researchers, teachers, and students will gather at the National Communication Association (NCA) 107th Annual Convention to explore the theme of “Renewal and Transformation.” Communication scholars will convene in Seattle, Washington, to engage in deep discussions about communication’s role in such issues as racial justice, feminism, relationships, and politics. The convention will also provide rich programming about evaluating the role and functions of communication in personal relationships, eliminating stereotypes, and organizing for social justice. 

During the more than 1,000 sessions and presentations, scholars will touch on provocative, relevant, and emerging issues in the news and society, including the COVID-19 pandemic, the Black Lives Matter movement, fake news, misinformation, the political divide, and many others. 

To attend:

WHAT: National Communication Association’s 107th Annual Convention 
WHEN: November 18-21, 2021
WHERE: Washington State Convention Center, Seattle, Washington

To obtain press passes: Media personnel must register at the registration desk and present current press or media credentials. Register in advance with Grace Hébert to have your press pass ready. 

All attendees must go through on-site COVID-19 vaccine verification prior to receiving their badge and other materials and prior to attending any convention session. 

Highlights:

For full program information, visit www.natcom.org/convention or contact Grace Hébert at 202-534-1104 or ghebert@natcom.org. 

Opening Session (Thursday, 11/18, 5-6:15 p.m.)

• Sponsored by the Waterhouse Family Institute for the Study of Communication and Society, this program will highlight the role communication plays in Native communities, through language, art, culture, and ritual. Panelists will discuss the ways communication can help these communities overcome challenges associated with race, education, poverty, healthcare, and Native language maintenance and renewal. This panel includes scholars and Native Seattle community leaders whose work is dedicated to the understanding, service, and care of urban American Indians and Alaska Natives.

Carroll C. Arnold Distinguished Lecture (Friday, 11/19, 5-6 p.m.)

• Tina M. Harris, Louisiana State University, will give a lecture titled, “Intentional Transformation in the Midst of Change.” Harris will reflect on the idea of intentional transformation, which requires a commitment to creating a new normal in response to the many inequities and imbalances that have for far too long impacted every facet of life. Sponsored by Pearson North America.

NCA Presidential Address and Awards Ceremony (Saturday, 11/20, 5-6:30 p.m.) 

• NCA President David T. McMahan, Missouri Western State University, will speak on “Assessing and Advancing the Discipline.”
• More than 30 Communication scholars will receive awards for their research, teaching, and service.

Sponsored by Routledge, Taylor & Francis.