Katie Halford

Amanda “Katie” West Halford is an Instructor in the Department of Applied Communication at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock (UA Little Rock), where she has taught since 2012. She holds an M.A. in Applied Communication Studies (emphasizing Organizational Communication) from UA Little Rock and a B.A. in Speech Communication from Arkansas Tech University. Her teaching and professional focus centers on communication education, training and development, persuasive presentations, conflict management, and communication ethics. Grounded in a philosophy that every student has something to give and something to gain, Katie cultivates virtual learning environments built on grace, curiosity, and genuine connection. She emphasizes real-world application, self-awareness, and resilient skill mastery—offering opportunities for assignment reflection and revision—to empower students to navigate complex personal and professional communication with confidence.

M.A. 2012:  University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Applied Communication Studies, emphasis Organizational Communication

B.A. 2010:  Arkansas Tech University, Russellville

Speech Communication

Teaching Philosophy:

Grounded in the belief that every student has unique value to offer and gain, my teaching philosophy centers on fostering ethical, effective communication through active application, deep reflection, and real-world mastery. In my virtual classroom, I cultivate a culture rooted in grace, curiosity, and connection—creating a safe space where students view setbacks as essential steps toward growth. By pairing foundational theories with flexible revision opportunities, I empower overextended online learners to build self-awareness, practice resilience, and meaningfully transform their everyday communication.

Courses Taught:

COMM 10073: Intro to Communication

COMM 32073: Persuasive Presentations

COMM 32373: Conflict Management

COMM 33073: Professional Communication

COMM 34073: Communication Ethics

Instructor of Applied Communication—University of Arkansas at Little Rock—August 2012—Present

Instructor of Speech Communication—Episcopal Collegiate High School—June 2013, June 2014, and June 2015

Administrative Position—University of Arkansas at Little Rock—August 2010-May 2012

Teaching Assistant—Arkansas Tech University—August 2009-May 2010