Joe Downing, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Corporate Communication
[email protected]
717-771-4131
Joe Downing is an associate professor of corporate communication who teaches courses in communication theory, conflict and negotiation, crisis management, group decision-making, and public relations. He lives in York, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Verónica Calvillo, Ph.D., an associate professor of Spanish at Gettysburg College. His research focuses on organizations’ employee crisis response strategies and how the Federal Government uses cell broadcast technologies to communicate imminent weather threats to the public, and core communication competencies of waiters at All-inclusive Mexican resort hotels.
CAS 100B Effective Speech (3 credits)
This an introductory study of group problem solving that focuses on formal speaking and message evaluation. In addition, students will learn how to give an effective individual presentation. There is also a significant library research component to the course.
PSU 8 First-Year Seminar (1 credit)
This required course facilitates students’ adjustment to the high expectations, demanding workload, increased academic liberties, and other aspects of their transition to college life. Topics covered include the challenges of balancing life and school, academic success strategies, dealing with financial aid, choosing a major, as well as understanding academic discourse and University policy and procedure. This course provides an advanced introduction to University life at Penn State, highlighting the many resources available to help students succeed.