Charnell Peters

Dr. Charnell Peters is an esteemed Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at Saint Louis University, where she imparts her knowledge through courses on media and society, race, media, and technology, as well as stereotyping in the mass media. Her academic journey began with a Ph.D. from the University of Utah, followed by an M.A. from Bowling Green State University, equipping her with a robust foundation in communication studies. Dr. Peters' research is deeply rooted in critical science and technology studies, Black digital media studies, and critical interpersonal and family communication. She employs qualitative methods to explore these areas, contributing significantly to the academic discourse. Her scholarly work has been recognized in several prestigious journals, including her article "Racial-genomic interest convergence and the geneticization of Black families" published in the Journal of Family Communication. This work highlights the intersection of race and genetics in familial contexts. Another notable publication by Dr. Peters is "Performing Blackness: A composite counterstory of direct-to-consumer genetic ancestry testing," featured in Text and Performance Quarterly. This piece delves into the narratives surrounding genetic ancestry testing and its implications for Black identity. Additionally, her research on "Instagramming diasporic mobilities: The Black travel movement and differential spatial racialization" in Communication, Culture, and Critique examines the role of social media in shaping racial and spatial identities. Beyond her research and teaching, Dr. Peters is actively involved in the academic community. She is a member of the National Communication Association, where she collaborates with fellow scholars to advance the field of communication. Her participation in the International Congress of Qualitative Inquiry further underscores her commitment to qualitative research methodologies. Dr. Peters' work not only enriches the academic landscape but also provides critical insights into the dynamics of race, media, and technology. Her dedication to exploring these complex intersections continues to inspire students and colleagues alike, making her a valuable asset to Saint Louis University and the broader communication discipline.