Dr. Keith Semmel joined the Cumberland College faculty in 1990 and was named Chairman of the newly formed Department of Communication and Theatre Arts in 1998.

He earned his first degree in Speech Communication, graduating from Mansfield University with a B.A. in 1976. He then moved on to Bowling Green State University, where he completed an M.A. and a Ph.D in Interpersonal and Public Communication in 1977 and 1980, respectively.

Dr. Semmel’s particular interests and areas of research include mass media, film, animation, and popular culture. His media forum, "The ‘Death’ of Paul McCartney: A Case Study in Mass Media and Modern Mythology," is a popular annual event at Cumberland College, presented every Halloween.

Courses Taught

COMM 130 Interpersonal Communications

COMM 131 Introduction to Mass Media

COMM 230 Introduction to Public Speaking

COMM 431 History and Criticism of Film I

COMM 432 Theories of Persuasion

COMM 435 History and Criticism of Film II

COMM 490 Special Topics in Communication: Religion and Mass Media

COMM 490 Special Topics in Communication: Animation

COMM 490 Special Topics in Communication: The Beatles

Publications and Presentations

"Steven Spielberg," The Guide to United States Popular Culture, edited by Ray B. Browne and Pat Brown. Bowling Green, OH: Bowling Green State University Popular Press, 2001: 667-668.

"Raiders of the Lost Ark," The Guide to United States Popular Culture, edited by Ray B. Browne and Pat Brown. Bowling Green, OH: Bowling Green State University Popular Press, 2001: 763-765.

"Understanding Mass Media," Presentations for visiting students at Cumberland College Campus Discovery Days, December 2, 2000 and February 10, 2001.

"The ‘Death’ of Paul McCartney: A Case Study in Mass Media and Modern Mythology," Communication Media Arts Forum, October, 2000.

"I’m Dreaming of a Wide-Screen Christmas." Cumberland College Elderhostel Program, December 2000.

Dr. Keith Semmel, Department Chair
Phone: 606.539.4494
Email: ksemmel@ucumberlands.edu