Sydney O’Shay

2026 Eldon J Gardner Teacher of the Year Award Nominee

College of Arts & Sciences | Department of Communication and Media

Sydney O’Shay, Ph.D., is an award‑winning teacher‑scholar and Assistant Professor of Communication Studies whose work is defined by a deep commitment to relational, student‑centered pedagogy. Her teaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that students learn best when they feel respected, supported, and intellectually challenged. Across nine distinct undergraduate and graduate courses, O’Shay has earned a reputation for creating classroom communities where students feel empowered to participate, take intellectual risks, and develop confidence. She brings complex course material to life by integrating her research on health, risk, and crisis communication and illustrating theories through real‑world cases such as the Flint water crisis and Utah’s air quality challenges. Students frequently praise her as an instructor who “believes in us,” who makes class engaging through active learning and meaningful discussions, and who ties every assignment directly to skill development and course objectives. Her thoughtful use of scaffolding, low‑stakes formative assessments, and inclusive practices fosters both conceptual mastery and a strong sense of belonging.

Beyond the classroom, O’Shay is widely recognized for her exceptional mentoring. She has guided nineteen undergraduate and graduate researchers through various research projects, resulting in more than $40,000 in student scholarships, conference presentations, and peer‑reviewed publications. Her students frequently describe her mentorship as transformational, and her department has twice honored her as Undergraduate Research Mentor of the Year. Through her dedication to student growth, pedagogical reflection, and community‑engaged learning, O’Shay has established herself as an educator whose influence extends far beyond the classroom, shaping student trajectories and strengthening the academic programs she serves.