Understanding Chronic Uncertainty: Berman Institute Lecture Welcomes Dr. Walid Afifi
The School of Communication hosted its first Berman Institute Distinguished Lecture with Dr. Walid Afifi, whose research explores how communication helps people navigate chronic uncertainty. His visit advanced the institute’s mission to address social issues through communication and inspired students and faculty alike.
This fall, the School of Communication hosted its first-ever Berman Institute Distinguished Lecture, featuring Dr. Walid Afifi, Professor and Associate Dean at UC Santa Barbara, past NCA president, NCA Distinguished Scholar, and ICA Fellow. His research looked at how people handle uncertainties in their lives, specifically in situations where information may be limited and the magnitude of uncertainties may be overwhelming. He highlights how communication is an essential driving force to connect and empower “chronically uncertain” communities.
As stated in the PSFA announcement article for the event, the lecture reflected the Berman Institute’s mission to “support cutting-edge research that addresses pressing social issues through a communication lens.” Dr. Afifi’s work directly aligns with this goal as he offers insight and addresses factors that make uncertainty shape people's everyday lives.
During his two-day visit, Dr. Afifi also held a research methods workshop, met with students and held open discussions with faculty and students, noting how “Every question pushed the conversation forward and expanded my thinking about my own research. I thoroughly enjoyed the discussions and appreciated the opportunity to be part of your community for a couple of days.”
The faculty echoed the impact of his visit. “Dr. Afifi’s lecture was an excellent reminder of how communication research helps us understand the ways people cope, connect, and make decisions in an increasingly uncertain world.” reflected by Dr. Savage, professor in the School of Communication.
Capturing the impact of the lecture on our students, graduate student Sarah Baer reflected “Dr. Afifi’s research on coping with chronic uncertainty within Palestinian communities spotlights an important and relevant area of communication research. As a first-year grad student, it was inspiring to hear about research that directly impacts marginalized communities and uniquely contributes to communication scholarship.”
