UNL communication studies lecturer wins major teaching award

Charles Braithwaite, senior lecturer in communication studies at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, has won the Western States Communication Association's Master Teacher Award. This award is given to educators who represent sustained excellence and innovation in college teaching.

With more than 2,000 members, WSCA is the largest of the regional associations in communication, with a strong focus in communication instruction.

"This award is well-deserved for a career devoted to outstanding communication instruction and mentoring," said William Seiler, chair of the department of communication studies. "This also reflects on his excellent work in the Global Classroom project, in communication studies, and in international studies."

Braithwaite's academic specialty is in the area of intercultural communication, and he teaches courses such as conflict management, communication in international organizations, interviewing and nonverbal communication. He has a special interest in Native American higher education, and has conducted extensive research on the Navajo nation.

Braithwaite's international experience includes serving as a Navy interpreter during the Vietnam War, and studying international business communication along the U.S.-Mexican border. He heads the Global Classroom project at UNL, which connects students in Lincoln to students around the world -- countries participating include Russia, Pakistan and Turkey -- for discussions of culture and current events.

There will be a panel held in Braithwaite's honor at a WSCA conference in Seattle in February.

CONTACTS: William Seiler, Chair, Communication Studies, (402) 472-2069;

Charles Braithwaite, Sr. Lecturer, Communication Studies, (402) 472-6178