About our authors
Steven A. Beebe is Regents' and University Distinguished Professor Emeritus of Communication Studies at Texas State University. He served as Chair of his department at Texas State for 28 years and concurrently as Associate Dean of the College of Fine Arts and Communication for 25 years. Before joining Texas State University, he was on the faculty of the University of Miami for 10 years.
Professor Beebe is author and co-author of 12 books (with most books in multiple editions) that have been used at hundreds of universities throughout the world. He has also authored or co-authored more than 60 articles and book chapters and 150 professional papers with an emphasis on communication skill development.
Dr. Beebe has been a Visiting Scholar at both Oxford University and Cambridge University. In addition, he has given lectures and conference presentations internationally including 15 visits to Russia where he has helped to establish the first communication studies programs there.
Dr. Beebe served as president of the National Communication Association and has received his university's top research and service awards. He was recently named a Piper Professor for the State of Texas. The National Speaker's Association has named him Outstanding Communication Professor in America.
He enjoys traveling, reading, researching and writing about C. S. Lewis, playing the piano and is a struggling cellist.
John T. Masterson is Executive Vice President and Provost Emeritus of Texas Lutheran University. He taught Communication courses for over 30 years and has presented or published dozens of papers and articles as well as books co-authored with Steven Beebe. He has been the recipient of numerous awards and honors for his teaching, scholarship and service.
Prior to his move to Texas, Dr. Masterson served the University of Miami (FL) for 22 years as professor of communication, associate dean of the School of Communication, dean of the Graduate School of International Studies, and vice provost for Undergraduate Affairs.
In his spare time Dr. Masterson plays guitar and sings with the band Tin Roof Texas. Whenever possible, he and his wife Nancy take long road trips on their Harley Davidson motorcycle.
