WELCOME TO

DIGITAL INFLUENCE

COM 317

The Mission

Our mission is to infuse the internet with truthful information and positivity, fostering a digital environment where authenticity thrives.

Welcome & Introduction

I am a professor in the communication department and teach courses to help students discover the many facets of communicating in our world! I enjoy teaching speech, communication technology, digital influence, applied social media, writing for the media, storytelling, and COR classes. My husband and I live in Concord, 5 miles west of campus, and we have four grown kids. Aside from our day jobs, we stay busy with our 3 labradors, 70 chickens, and a small farm business.

I first discovered communication studies when I began working in the Registrar’s Office at SAU about 20 years ago. I loved the idea of designing and delivering messages that mattered! I was invited to develop COM317 when I was an instructional designer for SAU. I moved into the role of Instructional Designer for SAU in 2011 and began teaching full time in 2020. I enjoy spending time with students, building relationships, and helping them grow.

Education and Work Experience

BS Education, John Brown University, Arkansas
Elementary Teacher, Arizona
Stay-at-home-Mom, Michigan
Assistant Registrar, SAU
MA Communication, Spring Arbor University
Instructional Designer, SAU
Adjunct Professor, SAU
Assistant Professor, SAU
Freelancing in social media management and writing for Compassion International

Email:
gwen.hersha@arbor.edu

Phone:
517-414-3687

Office:
SDH Communication Suite

Hours Available:
By appointment.

My Story

I remember when I “asked Jesus to live in my heart.” I was four years old and was upset with a recurring nightmare. My Mom and I were snuggled on the couch. She told me that Jesus would keep me safe and at peace (Isaiah 26:3). I asked him to take my nightmares away. And I never had them again. This began my journey trusting in Jesus! He is all I have ever needed.