Maria Claudia Franca

Maria Claudia Franca champions interdisciplinary research on multicultural communication issues in communication disorders and sciences, as well as voice science. As a Professor in the Communication Disorders and Sciences Program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her students and colleagues. Dr. Franca holds a Master's degree in Communication Disorders and Sciences and a Ph.D. in Rehabilitation with a focus on Communication Disorders, which have equipped her with a robust foundation for her academic and research pursuits. Throughout her illustrious career, Dr. Franca has been recognized for her contributions to the field with numerous awards, including the Diversity Excellence Award, the Mark and Susan Ashley Endowed Professorship, and an SIU Carbondale Provost Faculty Fellowship. These accolades underscore her commitment to advancing understanding and practice in her areas of expertise. Dr. Franca's research is particularly focused on voice science and the multicultural aspects of communication disorders. Her work has been widely published in both journals and book chapters, contributing significantly to the body of knowledge in these fields. Her research not only advances academic understanding but also has practical implications for improving communication strategies across diverse populations. In addition to her research and teaching responsibilities, Dr. Franca is actively involved in several professional organizations, where she holds leadership positions. Her involvement in these organizations allows her to stay at the forefront of developments in her field and to influence the direction of research and practice in communication disorders and sciences. Dr. Franca's dedication to her field is evident in her ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between research and practice, ensuring that her work has a meaningful impact on both academic circles and the broader community. Her leadership and expertise continue to inspire students and colleagues alike, making her a respected figure in the field of communication disorders and sciences.