Dr. Leslie Steeves
Program Director
Senior Associate Dean, School of Journalism and Communication, University of Oregon
I first came to Ghana on Fulbright in 1996 and have been returning ever since. Ghana is a beautiful and accessible country offering rich opportunities for media internships, research, and service projects. 2016 marks my 14th year bringing UO SOJC students to Ghana. The 2017 group promises to be a great one. It is exciting and humbling to see
such a growing interest in sub-Saharan Africa at UO.
Dr. Michael “Doc” Williams
On-site adviser; Executive Director of the Aya Center
I have been working with the Media in Ghana program for several years now, and I have enjoyed my experience immensely. The quality of students who have participated in this program have been phenomenal — extremely bright, talented and creative! What I enjoy most about the program is seeing how both the student and the agencies they work for benefit from this service-learning experience. In short, everyone’s a winner, and I enjoy being involved in something this positive.
Dr. Audrey Gadzekpo
Director, Department of Communication Studies, University of Ghana
I head the Department of Communication Studies at the University of Ghana and have been involved in the Media in Ghana program for many years. I typically give students an introductory lecture on media in Ghana and address gender issues. I’m also happy to answer questions that arise during their stay related to their internships and research projects. As usual, I look forward to meeting and interacting with the new group.
Lisa Heyamoto
Senior Journalism Instructor, University of Oregon
I believe authentic, well-told stories can bridge divides and build community. That philosophy is the foundation of my teaching, research and journalistic work. Prior to joining the UO faculty in 2011, I was a columnist and reporter at The Sacramento Bee and The Seattle Times, where I wrote about culture, lifestyle and trends. I’ve led student experiential learning excursions to New York, Chicago, Cuba and Sri Lanka, and I’m looking forward to working with an amazing group of students in Ghana.
Curtis Austin
Associate Professor of History and Director of Black Studies
Curtis Austin received his Ph.D. from Mississippi State University in 1998. He comes to the University of Oregon after six years at the Ohio State University, where he directed the Young Scholars Program and taught Civil Rights Movement history in the Department of African American and African Studies.
Senyo Ofori-Parku
Assistant Professor of Advertising
Hometown: Peki, Avetile, Ghana
I study and teach brand strategy and environmental risk communication. I believe we all are sums of our varied experiences, and helping students encounter the world outside their comfort zones is an enduring way of developing empathy and making students well-rounded professionals. So, I couldn’t turn down Leslie’s invitation to be part of this year’s study abroad to Ghana where I am originally from. I hope to learn more about “my people” in ways I have not realized in the past.
