
Welcome!
About Karis K. Wilson, Ph.D. Candidate
Welcome to my research profile! I am Karis K. Wilson, a Ph.D. Candidate in Communication at the University of Oklahoma, with an expected graduation in 2023. My passion lies at the intersection of organizational communication, technology, and health, where I strive to drive meaningful change and transform our society.
Education
I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Kentucky, majoring in Integrated Strategic Communication with a focus on account management and a minor in communication, specializing in workplace health and sports communication. Graduating cum laude in 2017, I continued my academic journey at the University of Kentucky, earning a Master of Arts degree in Communication in 2019. During this time, I focused on strategic communication, organizational communication, and risk and crisis communication, also graduating cum laude.
Research Interests
My research is fueled by an unwavering commitment to driving meaningful change at the intersection of organizational communication, technology, and health. I am dedicated to exploring cutting-edge areas that challenge existing paradigms and pave the way for transformative outcomes.
Organizational Communication
Within the realm of organizational communication, I delve into the intricate dynamics of communication to create a more equitable future. I investigate how organizations adapt to meet the diverse needs of stakeholder groups, dismantling oppressive structures and fostering inclusive practices that uplift marginalized communities.
Technology Communication
In the realm of technology communication, I explore the potential of technology as a catalyst for empowerment and advocacy. I delve into how individuals strategically leverage technology to amplify their voices, dismantle systemic barriers, and forge pathways for social change. By exploring the creation of social, symbolic, and content capital, I uncover innovative ways technology can drive meaningful impact.
Health Communication
My research in health communication charts new territories to address pervasive disparities and improve well-being for all. I examine how communication shapes health outcomes, advancing strategies that bridge gaps, promote health equity, and dismantle entrenched power imbalances. Through community-centered approaches, I aim to empower individuals and ignite systemic transformations.
Relevant Research Experience
Publication Record
With a strong foundation in research and a commitment to driving impactful outcomes, I have embarked on an exciting trajectory that encompasses both practical experiences and academic accomplishments. Building upon my current publication record, which includes an article from 2019 and a book chapter published in 2022, I am eager to expand the scope of my research endeavors.
Practical Experiences
In addition to these contributions, my research journey extends far beyond specific publications. I have actively engaged in diverse practical experiences, including internships in journalism, account management/sales, and communication consultative gigs. These experiences have equipped me with valuable skills in data analysis, writing, and client engagement, enhancing my overall research capabilities.
Research Communication Internship with Microsoft
Furthermore, my research communication internship with Microsoft allowed me to collaborate with industry professionals and bridge the gap between academia and real-world applications.
Ongoing Research Projects
Through ongoing research projects in collaboration with esteemed researchers, I am continuously seeking guidance and exploring cutting-edge research avenues in the field of communication.
Upcoming Academic Appointment
I am proud to have received an academic appointment as an Assistant Professor/Faculty Fellow through the NYU Provost Postdoctoral Fellowship Program, commencing on September 1, 2023. This appointment reflects the recognition of my potential and dedication to making meaningful contributions in the field of communication.
Research and Legal Involvement
In addition to my research pursuits, I have also ventured into the legal field, seeking to apply my expertise and contribute to legal proceedings. I believe in the intersection of communication and the law and have actively engaged in experiences that bridge academia and the courtroom.
Limited Document Reviews and Shadowing
One of my early experiences in the legal field involved limited reviews of documents prepared by pro bono attorneys in Atlanta. This opportunity allowed me to gain insights into legal processes and familiarize myself with the communication dynamics within the legal context. Additionally, I had the privilege of shadowing calls scheduled with company owners while serving as a communication consultative researcher. This experience provided valuable exposure to the complexities of legal communication and its impact on strategic decision-making.
Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)
In a more extensive and involved role, I served as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for the Court Appointed Special Advocates of OKC. Over a period of eight months, I dedicated myself to advocating for the well-being and best interests of two children in Oklahoma City. As a CASA, I actively participated in court hearings, including adjudication and deposition, where I presented findings and evidence to support the children's best interests.
During this time, I also had the opportunity to shadow a case in which the state uncovered instances of the abusive use of technology resources to exploit young children. This experience further enhanced my aptitude in asking child-appropriate and sensitive questions, ensuring that I interacted with the children in a manner that fostered trust, comfort, and a safe space for them to express themselves.
I undertook the responsibility of reviewing and taking extensive notes related to the case, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the children's circumstances. Drawing upon these comprehensive notes, I crafted in-depth and explicit court reports tailored specifically to Judge Thomas Risen. These reports aimed to provide a thorough analysis of the case and present compelling arguments that supported the best interests of the children.
Throughout the CASA case, I worked closely with relevant stakeholders, including social workers, attorneys, and other professionals involved in the legal proceedings. By collaborating effectively and communicating crucial information, I played a vital role in facilitating a comprehensive understanding of the case's nuances.
By actively engaging in the review process, note-taking, shadowing, and producing tailored court reports, I ensured that Judge Thomas Risen had access to all the pertinent information necessary to make informed decisions in the best interests of the children involved.
Legal Collaboration and Consultation
I am eager to collaborate with law firms, legal professionals, and other stakeholders who recognize the value of communication theory, extensive literature review experience, and the expertise gained through pursuing a Ph.D. While I may not yet have a vast portfolio of research publications, my dedication to rigorous inquiry and my ability to apply my knowledge to real-world contexts make me a valuable asset in legal proceedings.
Whether you require assistance in analyzing complex communication dynamics, crafting persuasive arguments grounded in scholarly research, or leveraging communication strategies to strengthen your cases, I am ready to contribute my expertise. My unique combination of research acumen, practical experience, and a deep understanding of communication theory positions me to make meaningful contributions to legal teams and to help drive successful outcomes.
I invite law firms and legal professionals to reach out to me to explore potential collaborations, whether it involves providing expert opinions, offering strategic guidance, or utilizing my comprehensive literature review experience to inform case strategies. Together, we can leverage the power of effective communication to achieve desired outcomes and further the pursuit of justice.