Adrienne Muldrow
Adrienne Muldrow is an Associate Professor of Communication at East Carolina University, where she specializes in health communication and behavioral research. With over two decades of experience in both academic and professional settings, Adrienne brings a unique blend of theory and practice to her teaching. Her research focuses on how communication shapes health behaviors, with additional interests in food marketing, advertising, and the intersections of gender, ethnicity, and race. Adrienne earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of South Carolina, followed by doctoral studies at Washington State University.
Before entering academia, Adrienne built a successful career in finance, earning “Employee of the Year” at Bellco Credit Union in 2000. This diverse professional background enriches her classroom approach and her mentorship style. Outside of work, she enjoys book clubs, concerts ranging from jazz to rock and symphony, salsa dancing, and cooking. Passionate about learning and community, Adrienne continues to inspire students and colleagues alike through her commitment to communication, equity, and lifelong growth.
• Overcoming Your Fear of Public Speaking
• Washington State University- Ph.D.
• Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina- M.B.A.
• International Communication Association
• Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication
• American Psychological Association (APA) Health Psychology Division
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to my drive and ambition—they’ve pushed me to keep growing, take on new challenges, and never settle for less than my best.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received was, “Don’t be the first woman in your department”—not because you can’t, but because you shouldn’t have to carry the weight of breaking every barrier alone.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering the industry is simple: live your dream unapologetically and don’t let anyone tell you it’s out of reach.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges and opportunities in my field right now is the rise of AI and digital health, which offer potential for innovation but also raise concerns about data accuracy and the automation of health records without proper context.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Integrity and being true to myself and others are the values I hold most important, both in my work and personal life.