We are pleased to announce our guest speaker for the upcoming convention, Dr. Robert S. Littlefield!
Dr. Robert S. Littlefield is the Director and Professor of the Nicholson School of Communication at the University of Central Florida in Orlando. Formerly a Professor of Communication at North Dakota State University for 38 years, Littlefield served as President of the Communication, Speech and Theatre Association of North Dakota from 1985-1987 and was one of the founders of what has become the annual fall convention. He has served CSTAND in a variety of capacities and is a 1989 Inductee into its Hall of Fame. He served in several offices, including chairperson of the States Advisory Council for the National Communication Association, when the SAC launched the current awards for state association leaders. During his forensics coaching career, students from Shanley High School in Fargo, ND enjoyed success in student congress, debate, and speech; with nearly 70 students advancing to the National Speech and Debate Association National Tournament (formerly NFL). A highlight of his coaching career was the achievement of the National Point Leader designation by both of his children (Lindsay, 2003; Brady, 2007). The author of over 85 refereed publications and books, Littlefield has received recognition from state, regional, and national organizations for his scholarly activity. He served as editor of Communication Studies from 2013-2015 and was editor of the CSTAND Journal. His recent edited book, Risk and Crisis Communication: Navigating the Tensions Between Organizations and the Public, reflects his current focus on identifying the micro-processes at work when decision-makers are faced with a risk or crisis situation and must determine how best to develop and respond to prevent or mitigate the situation.
