Em Griffin

Em Griffin taught such diverse courses as persuasion, interpersonal communication, public speaking, intercultural communication, ethics, conflict, intimacy, and communication theory. Several texts have resulted from his teaching, including: The Mindchangers (persuasion), Getting Together (group dynamics), and Making Friends (interpersonal communication).

Em's teaching in the area of communication theory has produced the successful A First Look At Communication Theory, which is now in its 4th edition with McGraw Hill. He has also produced a companion videotape, Conversations with Communication Theorists. His research interests involving communication in developing close relationships are reported in the Journal of Social and Personal Relationships.

Prior to receiving his Ph.D. from Northwestern University and starting his teaching career, Em was involved in work with high schoolers through the organization Young Life. He maintains his interests in people outside of the classroom through his work with the Chicago Center for Conflict Resolution as a peer mediator. He is also actively involved with Opportunity International, a third world microenterprise development organization which creates job opportunities for the poor. For his continuing work with these organizations, Wheaton College awarded Em with its T. Kenneth Gieser Presidential Award, 2000, for service to others.