Author Bio(s)
Rheanna Rutledge, Ph.D., is a visiting professor in NSU’s College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. She holds a doctoral degree in communication studies (focused on strategic communication, media studies, and conflict resolution), a master’s degree in education (emphasis on pedagogy, ESL, and cross-cultural education), and a bachelor’s degree in studio art (focused on multimedia, graphic arts, and strategic communication). Several of her most recent publications are considered “breakthrough” research, and many originated from field data collected during her yearlong tour of duty in Afghanistan as a Lead Social Scientist with the U.S. Special Forces. The most influential research connected Afghan culture, religion, and behavior in ways that were able to bring forth previously unknown options toward peaceful negotiations. Her work resulted in a proven reduction of troop casualties in the insurgent strongholds of Afghanistan. For this work, Rutledge received a Commander’s Award from the Department of the Army Commander of Special Forces that states her work “contributed to the overwhelming success of the Command’s mission.” At NSU, she teaches courses including public speaking, human communication, mass media, public relations, and debate. Rutledge enjoys using innovative teaching strategies, experiential learning, and even community service activities to keep her students engaged and active.
Talk Description
During a yearlong tour in Afghanistan as a Lead Social Scientist with the U.S. Special Forces, Rutledge was reminded that time is no guarantee. By the end of her tour, lives were changed and many were saved, while her own life gained new perspective. In her talk, she explores the psychological connections between attitude and behavior that can take us from little steps to giant leaps.
Recommended Citation
Rutledge, Ph.D., Rheanna, "Little Steps and Giant Leaps: Time Is Limited, Possibility Is Not" (2016). TEDxNSU. 19.
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/tedxnsu/19
