Todd Henneman
in a Changing Digital World
Todd Henneman is a communication educator, journalist and researcher whose work explores how emerging technologies, evolving business models and digital platforms are reshaping professional communication, leadership and media culture. His teaching and scholarship sit at the intersection of journalism, organizational communication and experiential learning.
He is an assistant professor in the Department of Journalism & Public Relations at California State University, Long Beach, where he oversees the department’s internship practicum program. Previously, he taught advanced business writing at the USC Marshall School of Business and led faculty development institutes through USC’s Center for Excellence in Teaching.
Drawing on more than two decades of experience in journalism, higher education and organizational communication, Henneman’s work examines how communication shapes leadership, institutional culture and professional identity during periods of technological and social change. He is particularly interested in AI and communication, newsroom transformation, and effective communication in rapidly evolving professional environments.
Selected Experience and Recognition
Ranked in top 10% of faculty based on Learning Experience Evaluations
Covered politics, courts and business in Silicon Valley
Recognized for excellence in diversity, equity, and inclusion pedagogy
Awarded grant for multi-year violence-prevention project
Oversaw university social media teams and large-scale internship program
Coached faculty on effective and engaging teaching
Research and Teaching Themes
AI and Authenticity
Examining how artificial intelligence is reshaping professional communication, workplace writing, and perceptions of authenticity, credibility, and effectiveness in organizational and media contexts.
Experiential Learning and Internships
Investigating how internships, student media, mentorship, and experiential learning shape professional identity, career readiness, employability, and access to communication careers.
Equity and Professional Pathways
Exploring how socioeconomic status, institutional structures, and access to professional opportunities influence participation, equity, and advancement in journalism and public relations careers.
Leadership Communication
Exploring how communication shapes leadership, institutional culture, trust, ethical decision-making, and professional identity during periods of technological and social change.
Journalism and Media Transformation
Examining newsroom transformation, digital storytelling, platform culture, and evolving relationships among journalism, audiences, technology, and public trust.
Business Communication
Studying professional writing, organizational messaging, communication strategy, and audience-centered communication in workplace and leadership contexts.