my.CSMD
Meet Our Faculty: Tamara Gibbs-Franklin
Meet Tamara Gibbs-Franklin
Associate Professor, English, Communication, and Language
Faculty member since 2023
301-539-9810
tbgibbs-franklin@csmd.edu
Pronouns: she/her
Courses Taught
- COM-1010 Basic Principles of Speech Communication
- COM-1650 Introduction to Public Speaking
- COM-2300 Introduction to Media Writing
About
I'm a former broadcast journalist turned public-relations and marketing professional, and I am a lover of words, people, and processes. I am a self-published author and honed my storytelling and speaking skills in competitive newsrooms in Illinois and North Carolina for over two decades. I've built a successful career as an effective communicator in the public and private sectors, including a law enforcement agency, a franchise marketing firm, a publicly traded e-commerce tech company, and a grant-funded global health research institute.
I've served as an adjunct professor at flagship colleges and universities in North Carolina and Maryland, including the UNC Hussman School of Journalism and Media, Meredith College, and North Carolina Central University. I enjoy teaching public relations, media ethics, and journalism.
Educational Background
- Bachelor of Science in Journalism, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Master of Arts in Public Affairs Reporting, University of Illinois at Springfield
Q&A
My educational philosophy aligns with the Latin phrase cura personalis, meaning "care for the whole person." I focus on the unique personalities, lived experiences, and individual needs of each of my students.
I strive to understand the nuances of each student to help them develop effective communication skills–written, verbal, and nonverbal–for the modern workforce. I'm a failure-tolerant, empathetic leader in my classrooms who also emphasizes accountability and sustainable motivation. I structure my courses for personal growth and real-world work experiences, including 21st-century soft skills, critical thinking, and responsibility. My primary goal is to provide a safe environment where students with backgrounds different from their instructors and peers can share, learn, and reach their fullest potential.
I'm an avid gardener and enjoy teaching, reading, writing, and spending time with my husband, family, and friends.
I am a proud election judge volunteer for the Charles County Board of Elections. Participating in our nation’s democratic process is a privilege and rewarding learning experience.
Last updated: 8-28-24