Cindy Afoakwa-Acheampong

Biography

Cindy holds a master’s degree in communication studies from New Mexico State University. Her interests lie in the intersection of health communication, gender, and intercultural dynamics, particularly focusing on the intricate factors that impede communication within healthcare settings and studying people living with disabilities. She is also passionate about exploring how communication can be a catalyst for peacebuilding and sustainable development in Africa. She is currently pursuing a PhD in the Brian Lamb School of Communication, aiming to enhance her methodological skills by integrating quantitative methods with her established qualitative research.

Research and Teaching

Some of her projects involve investigating gastrodiplomacy and integration, specifically how food can strengthen relationships. Her study on this topic won the Top Paper Award at the Western States Communication Association Conference in Reno, 2024.  She is also studying support seeking and giving among women living with Obstetric Fistula in Ghana. This study also explores the societal marginalization faced by these women and their disclosure strategies.

In her teaching career, she served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for the Introduction to Communication course, at New Mexico State University’s Department of Communication Studies, where she taught for four semesters. The course encompassed topics such as interpersonal and health communication, political and conflict communication, and communication theories. She was recognized for her exceptional contributions to communication research with the Rebecca M. Verser Rising Scholar Award, showcasing her impact and achievements in the field.