DANIELLE K BROWN
I am embarking on my last few weeks as the John & Elizabeth Bates Cowles Professor of Journalism, Diversity and Equality in the Hubbard School of Journalism and Mass Communication at the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities. In June 2023, I will join friends and colleagues at Michigan State University as the 1855 Community and Urban Journalism Associate Professor. I am (apparently) an expert at packing boxes, among other things.
My research projects have focused principally on injustices in media and their effect on society in three core areas: race and racism; protest and social movements; and health inequalities. The great bulk of my work has empirically supported what many others have found before me: the theories and realities about racialized, patriarchal and ableist power structures haven't really changed much because society hasn't really changed much either. After almost a decade of mostly diagnostic work, my research now focuses on reparative interventions, solutions, and community engagement. You can check out my ongoing, Midwestern-based project at www.liftmsp.com. I welcome ideas, critiques, collaborations, and expansions.
I prioritize community-engaged work, and consult for numerous media, advocacy and non-profit news organizations interested in diversity and equity. I've won many awards, but am particularly proud of one of my most recent awards: the Public Service Award from the Journalism Studies Division of the International Communication Association, which recognizes my public scholarship and research. You can read more about my research throughout my website.
Prior to pursuing my research career, I worked as a photographer, designer, and writer. A trained journalist, I later worked in non-profit health and education public relations positions, where I was responsible for print and web publication creation, marketing & recruitment, design, writing, photography, and social media management. I received my doctorate in Journalism from the University of Texas at Austin in August 2017. I also received my Bachelor's degree in Journalism & Public Relations in December 2008 from Baylor University and my master's degree in Journalism, New Media & Public Relations in August 2013 from Baylor University.
I am the self-declared director of chaos for two extraordinary children who rollerskate, have hilarious business laughs, and will likely become the most beloved leaders of the Ramen noodle fan club. I am the "okayest" dog mom hyper-terrier-turned-old pup. During the height of the pandemic, I learned no languages (though I opened DuoLingo twice and tried), acquired no new hobbies (turns out, burning dinner a lot doesn't count as a ''hobby" among my closest friends), and got dressed occasionally (still trying to resist that part). I did, however, award myself a "so far, so good" survival badge after my vaccination and boosters, because I admire self-care and reward systems.
I plan to retire as soon as I learn to bake something that consistently tastes good, and open a truffle/taco/tequila flight shop on the beach somewhere in the Caribbean. I also recently discovered I might want to be a dog photographer and make the pictures into greeting cards so throw that in there somewhere too.