Meagan is a communication researcher and a journalist by training. She is currently a PhD candidate in the Department of Communication at the University of Washington (expected graduation in June 2024) and a research fellow at the Center for Journalism, Media & Democracy. She studies the intersection of journalism and public opinion, with particular interests in perceptions of conflict reporting and factors driving media (dis)trust in strong-state environments. Her dissertation project examines factors driving media trust in Uganda, and her work is published in several leading communication journals, including Journalism Studies, The International Journal of Press/Politics, and Mass Communication and Society.

Meagan completed her M.A. in Communication at the University of Washington and received her B.A. from the University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Journalism & Mass Communication, with certificates in African studies and global health. Formerly, Meagan served as the Assistant Director of the UW-Madison African Studies Program where she coordinated the inaugural years (2016-2019) of the U.S. State Department’s Mandela Washington Fellowship, including grant preparation and curriculum development for international adult learners. In addition to the Mandela Washington Fellowship, Meagan oversaw the administration of Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) fellowships, external communication efforts, and a variety of other center operations.

When not absorbed by independent projects and work, Meagan sees the world through a Nikon lens, surrounds herself with good storytellers, dreams up travel itineraries, and enjoys a warm French press.

Curriculum Vitae