Shirley G. Jones

• 1961 BA Brigham Young University
• 1969 MA University of Utah
• 1993 PhD University of Utah

As a high school debater, I knew that I wanted to teach in this discipline. The state championship trophy can still be seen in the Jordan High School trophy case. (It's really big.)

I earned my Bachelor's degree in Speech and Drama at BYU, my Master's in Communication at the U. of U., and my Ph.D., also in Communication, at the University of Utah. I have taught full time for 24 years—yikes!. (Seems like a large number for someone so young.)  I also taught while earning graduate degrees—eight years--at the U. of U. in both the Communication Department and the University Writing Program.  I have been a full-time faculty member of SLCC's Department of Communication since 1994.

I enjoy teaching students the usefulness of communication theories to "describe, explain, predict and control communication behaviors" (Julia T. Wood, U. of North Carolina).  Along the way I emphasize writing and prepare students for all types of academic writing.  They learn that a good academic paper includes "depth of analysis and copious detail" (Susan Miller, U. of U.).  After midterm students can quote the above quotations along with me.

All serious students in my classes succeed.  I see to it by suggesting, and sometimes insisting upon short one-on-one office conferences.  Be advised: If you miss an office appointment, you owe me a Snickers bar.  If I stand you up, I owe you one.

Little known facts abut me:

• I'm a news junkie
• I taught modern dance at Hillcrest H.S., history at Bountiful H.S. and English at Shoreline H.S, in Seattle.
• I was full-time faculty at the University of Maryland at College Park during the Anti-War protests (Viet Nam).  Tear gas and National Guard troops were often present and students took over the administration building for a few months of my tenure.  I taught debate to pre-law students.
• Following my Ph.D. I accepted a faculty position and moved (alone, but with my family's blessing) to Wilkes-Barre, PA. for two years.  I found the variety of ethnicities in the northeaster U.S. interesting, and enjoyed New York City on the week-ends.
• I've been told by students in three states that "I talk funny!"  Language regionalism are also very interesting, i.e. "yous guys" in PA.
• My four young grandchildren, aged four to thirteen, are handsome, beautiful, intelligent, polite, and thoughtful.

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