Casas receives Excellence in Teaching Award for 2026

Dr. Dawn Casas, assistant professor and chair of the department of communication, is Charleston Southern’s 2026 South Carolina Independent Colleges and Universities Excellence in Teaching Award recipient.

Deeply committed to student-centered, experiential learning, Casas connects communication theory to real-world application with distinctly Christian integration. She teaches courses such as Interpersonal Communication, Intercultural Communication, Public Speaking, and Communication Ethics & Professional Development. In recognition of her dedication to student success, she received CSU’s E.P.I.C. (Passion for Student Success) Award in 2025.

Dr. Michael Wilder, CSU provost, said, “Dr. Casas exemplifies CSU’s commitment to distinctly Christian, academically excellent education as she deeply invests in the next generation of thought leaders. She is a highly valued member of our university community, and we are grateful for her teaching excellence.”

Beyond the classroom, she serves as faculty advisor for Buc News Network mentoring students in storytelling, media strategy, and ethical communication. She also launched the inaugural CSU Public Speaking Invitational, creating a pathway for speakers to advance to the regional Lowcountry Public Speaking Invitational hosted by The Citadel.

Her scholarship examines conflict management and communication ethics through the lens of faith integration. She is the author of Conflict Toolbox: Biblical Communication Skills for Everyday Life (Integratio Press, forthcoming 2027).

Casas holds a PhD in communication from Regent University and a Master of Education in curriculum and instruction from Roberts Wesleyan University. Her research explores communication adaptability within marital conflict and reflects her broader interest in how communication shapes relationships.