Donyale R. Padgett is an educator and communications professional with 20 years of progressive industry experience and over 15 years of teaching experience at the college level. She currently serves as Associate Professor of Diversity, Culture, and Communication in the Department of Communication at Wayne State University (WSU), where she has worked since 2002. Professor Padgett holds a doctorate degree from Howard University in rhetoric and intercultural communication. She also holds a master’s degree in organizational communication/public relations and a bachelor’s degree in journalism – both from Wayne State University. Much of her research focuses on issues of race and culture, with particular emphasis on crises that affect marginalized and underrepresented groups. She has published numerous articles in academic journals and presents her work at regional and national conferences. She is also a very active practitioner, a sought-after speaker on topics of diversity and inclusion, and works with numerous organizations to improve communications programming and provide more inclusive workspaces.