Sam BoerboomDr. Samuel Boerboom

Associate Professor, Communication & Theatre, CLASS

Dr. Samuel Boerboom, promoted to associate professor and department chair in 2018, has established himself as a prominent leader and educator in the Communication and Theatre Department. He is described by students and colleagues as an exceptional teacher, well-respected scholar, and committed member of the MSU Billings community, earning him recognition as one of this year’s Faculty Excellence Award recipients.

In many communications courses packed with theoretical curriculum, it is often difficult to connect and engage students with course material. Boerboom strives to do just that; he guides his students to interpret and apply these theoretical concepts in his courses.

“As a teacher, Sam has embraced student centered teaching and learning strategies,” shares a colleague. “He was one of the original adopters of the TEIL room and has been on the forefront of developing HyFlex.” Through HyFlex, students enrolled in a course are given the option of attending class in-person, online, or a mixture of both. Boerboom’s media criticism class pioneered this method in spring 2019, with positive evaluations from students.

His glowing evaluations reflect not only in his teaching, but his efforts in advising students to successfully complete their degrees. Serving as the chair of the Department of Communication and Theatre, Boerboom advises both undergraduate and graduate students, oversees multiple programs, and was a co-leader on the recruit and retain objective in the recent strategic planning process. His service extends to the Academic Senate, being an eLearning Faculty Fellow, and working as a faculty mentor; all in addition to teaching numerous communication courses.

Boerboom’s commitment to research and scholarly activities is also commendable; he has published two books, four book reviews, and numerous book chapters and presentations based on his two primary streams of research, media and the rhetoric of food. “He is recognized as an important voice in the debate over food politics,” notes a colleague.

His support of students, dedication to campus success, and impressive academic research are an inspiration to all at MSU Billings.