Shannan Butler, Ph.D.

Communication Pro | Digital Media Expert | Educator | Researcher |

I'm a communication innovator who uniquely blends a deep understanding of communication theory and practice with expertise in educational technology and digital media creation. I draw from my experience in education, digital media, and technology to develop innovative solutions that bridge traditional boundaries. Feel free to explore my portfolio to see how these diverse perspectives come together in my projects.

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My Digital portfolio

A little bit about me

I'm an accomplished communication specialist with over 20 years of experience spanning technology, education, and project leadership. Having taught thousands of college students and directed communications for a non-profit, I combine academic expertise with practical know-how.

My diverse skill set includes training, graphic design, videography, programming, marketing, and social media management. I thrive in multifaceted roles where I can apply my technical abilities alongside my passion for clear communication and thoughtful leadership—always with an eye toward making complex ideas accessible and meaningful.

COMMUNICATION EXPERTISE

Teaching & Training

With over 20 years in higher education, I've dedicated my career to making learning exciting and effective. I love finding creative teaching approaches, developing new curriculum, and using technology to help all kinds of learners succeed. I have a knack for creating engaging training sessions, workshops, and presentations that actually stick with people.

Written Communication

I've shown my writing abilities by authoring and authoring 10 peer-reviewed pieces in respected academic books and journals. My experience spans academic research, analysis, and making meaningful contributions to the communication field. I've also done plenty of writing in strategic communication and navigated the ever-changing social media landscape.

Verbal Communication

I'm a skilled communicator who has delivered over 35 academic and professional presentations at national, international, and regional conferences. My style is conversational – I love engaging audiences by mixing in multimedia elements and a touch of humor to make complex topics both interesting and easier to understand.

Curriculum Development

Throughout my higher ed career, I've created and refreshed many courses, including developing new offerings like Visual Communication, Film Theory & Analysis, and Interactive Media Production & Design. I incorporate student feedback and the latest research to keep learning experiences fresh and engaging. I enjoy developing learning objectives and designing courses that fit well into broader program goals.

Instructional Design

I create engaging educational materials—from interactive software to multimedia resources—by applying strong pedagogical principles. I make learning both effective and enjoyable for diverse audiences by thoughtfully integrating technology into instruction. Whether designing online elements, user-friendly assessment tools, or visually appealing presentations, I ensure all materials are educationally sound.

Project Managent

I've successfully led multiple initiatives that showcase my planning and organizational skills. I have managed all aspects of project lifecycles –conceptualizing, allocating resources, executing, and evaluating—while consistently hitting deadlines and budgets. I thrive working with diverse teams and stakeholders through the use of clear communication and achievement of goals.

Learning Management Systems

I'm well-versed in using learning management systems like Blackboard and Canvas to create organized, accessible online environments. I've built courses that make it easy to share materials, communicate with students, and manage assignments. I know how to make the most of LMS features— facilitating discussions, integrating multimedia, and creating effective digital assessments with meaningful feedback.

Digital Storytelling

I have created engaging digital narratives through the design and development of interactive educational games, multimedia books, and apps for diverse learners. I produce compelling videos for both promotion and informational purposes, and have set up live-streaming systems to reach wider audiences. I love integrating digital storytelling into education—like when I helped students create blogs to share their study abroad experiences.

Media Production

I bring extensive multimedia expertise to the table, from video editing with Adobe Premiere and Final Cut Pro to audio production with Logic Pro. My Adobe Creative Suite skills have powered numerous promotional videos and visual elements for educational content. I've directed live TV, operated cameras, engineered sound, and built live-streaming systems—all skills that enhance my ability to create engaging content.

Strategic Communication

As Director of Communications, I built and executed strategic communication plans that connected with diverse audiences, boosting our newsletter readership and website traffic. I've created comprehensive communications strategies across digital, print, and social media channels. I have an instinct for identifying what we need to communicate and finding effective ways to make it happen.

PERSONAL SKILLS

Interpersonal

I build strong connections with students, faculty, staff, and partners through effective communication and collaboration. My approach creates an environment where open dialogue and teamwork flourish, as evidenced by my successful advising, committee work, and community partnerships. During my career, I've mentored many individuals, offering guidance that supports their academic and professional growth.

Collaboration & Teamwork

I thrive on collaboration with diverse teams of faculty, staff, and students on everything from curriculum development to implementing portfolio systems. My approach keeps communication flowing and goals aligned. Whether advising student organizations or chairing committees, I create supportive environments where shared decision-making leads to success and everyone's voice matters.

Creativity

As a creative problem-solver, I founded a startup developing educational games, books and apps while designing innovative curriculum approaches. I craft visually engaging learning experiences that captivate students, from multimedia presentations to interactive tools. My creativity extends to marketing materials—I've even illustrated and published my own interactive children's story.

Adaptability

I easily adapt across diverse communication courses, continuously refreshing my teaching methods with new technologies and student feedback. This flexibility ensures engaging, relevant learning in any setting. I balance roles as educator, entrepreneur, and communication director—applying my versatile skills to create innovative solutions from new courses to educational software and live-streaming systems that evolve with changing needs.

Professionalism

I embody professionalism through dedicated university committee service, committed student mentoring, and field engagement as a guest editor and peer reviewer. My work ethic shines in my proactive curriculum development, consistent scholarly output, and initiative in founding ventures like iSocrates and Fuzzy Logic Group. I consistently exceed expectations while driving innovation in both institutional settings and entrepreneurial pursuits.