Dawn Opel

Professor at the Department of Writing, Rhetoric, and Cultures at Michigan State University, Dawn Opel serves as an adjunct assistant professor, where she brings her extensive expertise in rhetoric and communication to the academic community. In addition to her academic role, she is the Director for Research & Strategic Initiatives at the Food Bank Council of Michigan, where she applies her research to real-world challenges, particularly in the areas of food security and healthcare outcomes. Dr. Opel's research interests are diverse and interdisciplinary, encompassing food security, participatory culture, digital humanities, healthcare outcomes, disaster communication, and experience architecture. Her work aims to bridge the gap between academic research and practical applications, particularly in enhancing patient health outcomes and improving food security measures. She is passionate about using her research to make a tangible impact on communities and individuals. Dr. Opel earned her Ph.D. in Rhetoric, Composition, and Linguistics from Arizona State University, where she honed her skills in analyzing and crafting effective communication strategies. Her academic journey also includes a J.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Law, which provides her with a unique perspective on the intersection of law, policy, and communication. Additionally, she holds a B.A. in History from Wake Forest University, which laid the foundation for her analytical and research skills. Throughout her career, Dr. Opel has been committed to fostering participatory culture and engaging with digital humanities to enhance the understanding and dissemination of knowledge. Her work in disaster communication and experience architecture further highlights her dedication to improving systems and processes that affect people's lives. Dr. Opel's contributions to the field are not only academic but also practical, as she collaborates with various organizations and stakeholders to implement strategies that address pressing societal issues. Her role at the Food Bank Council of Michigan exemplifies her commitment to using research for strategic initiatives that drive positive change. In her teaching, Dr. Opel emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, effective communication, and the application of theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. She encourages her students to explore the intersections of rhetoric, culture, and technology, preparing them to become thoughtful and impactful communicators in their respective fields.