Dr. McDonald joined Hastings College in 2014. He holds a Ph.D. in communication studies with a focus in performance from Louisiana State University. His dissertation examines exorcism as a subgenre of the horror film. With more than 20 conference presentations, Austin enjoys writing about intercollegiate forensics, gender, the horror film, and remix culture.
Recipient of the 2014 Outstanding New Coach Award from American Forensic Association, Austin has a record of working with successful forensics programs and coaching competitors to national elimination rounds. He is thrilled to serve as associate director of the HC Forensics (Speech) Team.
Dr. McDonald has taught more than 12 courses in communication and related fields. His students describe him as “enthusiastic,” “passionate” and “personable,” and his lectures as “enjoyable” and rife with “movie/visual” examples.
Dr. McDonald also serves as the faculty advisor for the Phi Omega chapter of Lambda Pi Eta (communication honor society).
In his spare time, Austin enjoys journaling, watching scary movies, competing in local trivia nights and spending time with family.
Select Publications:
McDonald II, C. A., & Burke, S. (2020, Spring). Exploring the impacts of an open door policy and a mindfulness room at the intercollegiate speech (individual events) tournament. Speaker & Gavel, 57(1), 12-34.
McDonald II, C. A. (2013). The hero of copyright reform: Exploring non-cochlear impacts of Girl Talk’s plunderphonics. Kaleidoscope, 13(1), 56-72.
Edwards, J. & McDonald II, C. A. (2010). Reading Hillary and Sarah: Contradictions of feminism and representation in 2008 campaign political cartoons. American Behavioral Scientist, 54(3), 313-329.
