Communication Arts Faculty

Dr. Warren Anderson '86 has served with his alma mater since 1988, currently as the Director of the Demoss Center for Worship in the Performing Arts (DCWPA) and the University Choir. He also teaches classes throughout the DCWPA on various topics, including the history of rock and roll. More Info

University Choir, History of Rock and Roll, Worship Resources, Introduction to the Community of Worship Performances

Judson President Dr. Gene Crume earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Relations and his Master’s degree in Communications from Western Kentucky University. He went on to earn his Ph.D. in Education with a concentration in Organizational Leadership from the University of Virginia. Throughout his career he has been committed to passing on his experience and knowledge by serving as assistant professor or adjunct instructor for classes in business, public relations and communications at several institutions. He is currently teaching Media Arts 443: Fundamentals of Public Relations at Judson. More Info

Chris Lash has served as the Dean of University Ministries for nearly a decade, a ministry for which he speaks frequently in Judson's chapels. He received formal training at Moody Bible Institute and added a MA in Theology from Wheaton College. Chris teaches Foundations of Speech for Judson in the Communication Arts Department.

A graduate of Yale University, Dr. Sharon Kim specializes in U.S. Literature of the late 19th to early 20th century, with emphasis on Christian religion and spirituality, as well as theory and methodology related to religion in literary studies. More Info

Dr. Kristy Piebenga has been a passionate educator for over 15 years. She spent many years teaching in second, third, and fourth-grade classrooms before transitioning to the university level. She now shares her passion for literacy education with both undergraduate and graduate students. Dr. Piebenga continues to participate in local schools by working with teachers in the classroom and developing strategies for building readers and writers. Her research interests include teaching ideology, processes of literacy, and literacy as social practice.

Dr. Ryan Schaefer is an adjunct professor at Judson University. He teaches in the Communication Arts and Education departments. In addition, Dr. Schaefer is an assistant principal at a K-5 Elementary School in Crystal Lake. He graduated from Judson's Master of Education in Literacy and Doctor of Education in Literacy programs.

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David Alan Smith is a graduate of Judson's Master of Education in Literacy and Doctor of Education in Literacy programs. He teaches in both the Communication Arts Department and the Division of Education and enjoys presenting on communication, language, and education at state and local events. David is married to Katie, also a Judson alum, and together they have two wonderful children.