Cindy B. Montgomery, PhD

Dynamic communications professional and educator with extensive experience, excelling in media relations and crisis communications. Proven leader in strategic planning and social media management, driving impactful campaigns. Adept at fostering team collaboration and mentoring, with a strong focus on innovative content creation, and effective public engagement. Known for fostering a caring, challenging higher education environment conducive to online and in-person student learning. Committed to creating motivational and collaborative learning environments that encourage students' professional and academic success.

• Public Relations Society of America (PRSA)
• Association for Communication Excellence (ACE)
• Georgia Education Advancement Council (GEAC)
• Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE)

• Human Subjects Research, CITI Program, September 2023-September 2026

• 39th Annual Educational Advertising Awards (EduADAwards), Gold Award, Total Public Relations Campaign Category, 2024
• 39th Annual Educational Advertising Awards (EduADAwards), Bronze Award, Diversity Equity Inclusion Category, 2024
• CUPRAP (College and University Public Relations & Associated Professionals), Honorable Mention, Public Relations Campaign, 2024
• ACE (Association for Communication Excellence) Critique and Awards Program, Silver and Gold Awards, 2003-2005
• Wisconsin Free Community Papers Association, General Excellence Award, 1999
• Valdosta State University, Annie Powe Hopper Award, 1997
• Valdosta State University, Outstanding Journalism Student Award, 1996

Adjunct Instructor
South College (Online), Knoxville, Tennessee
October 2024 – Present

• Teach online public speaking courses, focusing on speech structure, delivery, and audience engagement.
• Utilize innovative technology and interactive activities to enhance student learning in a virtual setting.

Adjunct Instructor
Thomas University, Thomasville, Georgia
August 2021 – December 2022; August 2024 – December 2024

• Taught in-person and online courses in public speaking, public relations, and interpersonal communication.
• Designed and implemented student-centered curricula that emphasized real-world applications and active learning strategies.
• Provided individualized support through video conferencing and mentoring outside of class hours.

Adjunct Instructor, English Department
Valdosta State University, Valdosta, Georgia
August 2014 – May 2018

• Taught multiple sections of Journalism 2500 (Journalism Seminar), covering media writing, ethics, and industry trends.
• Served as an advisor for the student newspaper, mentoring students in reporting, editing, and publication processes.
• Developed experiential learning opportunities to prepare students for careers in journalism and communication.

Part-Time Instructor, College of Business
Albany State University, Albany, Georgia
August 2011 – December 2011

• Led an in-person Economics of Health Care course, integrating real-world case studies and policy analysis.
• Encouraged critical discussions on the economic implications of healthcare systems and reforms.

Part-Time Instructor, Department of Health, Physical Education, and Recreation
Albany State University, Albany, Georgia
January 2010 – May 2010

• Taught Current Issues in Health, facilitating discussions on contemporary public health topics.
• Incorporated research projects to enhance student engagement with real-world health concerns.

Adjunct Instructor, Academic Division
Middle Georgia Technical College, Warner Robins, Georgia
January 2004 – April 2004

• Instructed a Business English course, emphasizing professional writing, grammar, and communication skills.
• Prepared students for workplace communication through hands-on assignments and practical exercises.

• 39th Annual Educational Advertising Awards (EduADAwards), Gold Award, Total Public Relations Campaign Category, 2024
• 39th Annual Educational Advertising Awards (EduADAwards), Bronze Award, Diversity Equity Inclusion Category, 2024
• CUPRAP (College and University Public Relations & Associated Professionals), Honorable Mention, Public Relations Campaign, 2024
• ACE (Association for Communication Excellence) Critique and Awards Program, Silver and Gold Awards, 2003-2005
• Wisconsin Free Community Papers Association, General Excellence Award, 1999
• Valdosta State University, Annie Powe Hopper Award, 1997
• Valdosta State University, Outstanding Journalism Student Award, 1996