1. Melissa D. Dodd, Ph. D.
Assistant Professor and Academic Advisor
Melissa Dodd is no stranger to public
relations. She’s spent 10 years in the
field teaching, conducting research and
working as a consultant for corporate
clients. Currently, Dr. Dodd specializes
in media research and public relations at
the second largest university in the
nation.
When she joined the staff at the University of Central Florida in 2013, Dodd set out to create a
unique learning experience, one that takes students outside the classroom and demonstrates the
importance of research in public relations. As a strong advocate of hands-on applied learning,
Dodd involves her students in a variety of client, research and campaign based activities that
provide challenging, professional experiences. Dodd’s passion for developing real world
experiences pushes her students to grow as professionals before they exit the program. It’s this
passion that gives student’s the confidence they need to succeed and makes the Advertising-
Public Relations program one of the most sought after degrees at UCF.
Dodd found her love for public relations when she stumbled into a few internships while
attending Indiana University as an undergraduate student. To her surprise, Dodd discovered she
could tell stories and conduct research while pursuing a career in public relations. As her passion
for public relations began to grow, Dodd knew she wanted to learn more. From there she went on
to earn her master’s degree in public relations and a doctorate degree in philosophy of
communication.
Whether it’s penning journal publications and book chapters, writing articles for Forbes
magazine or presenting her research at academic conferences across the globe, Dodd exemplifies
the world of public relations. This past fall, Dodd received her most rewarding accomplishment
yet – her Accreditation in Public Relations. This accreditation showcases Dodd’s knowledge,
skill and abilities in the field of public relations; and further proves her commitment to passing
on knowledge to the student body at UCF.
Outside of the classroom, students may be surprised to discover Dodd is naturally a quiet
introvert. She enjoys traveling around the world for both work and pleasure. She spends her
weekends reading non fiction, playing with her dog and attending wine walk with friends. As a
strong advocate for women’s rights, Dodd often spends her free time volunteering at Planned
Parenthood. Whatever Dodd does, one thing is certain, she does it with passion and dedication.
Through her passion for research and her commitment to hands-on learning, Melissa Dodd
defines what it means to teach at the University of Central Florida.