Media framing analysis shows gap in NGO coverage depth

A new study, published in the Journal of Public and Nonprofit Affairs, examines how Ukrainian news media portray nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) from 2019-2024, analyzing 306 news articles to understand media representation patterns. The research reveals that while NGOs received generally positive coverage and were frequently used as information sources, they were predominantly framed episodically rather than thematically and often portrayed as story attributes rather than primary subjects. This framing pattern may limit public understanding of NGOs' broader societal impact, despite their crucial role in Ukrainian civil society.

The findings highlight important implications for both NGOs and journalists working to strengthen civil society in challenging environments. NGOs should engage more proactively with media to promote deeper, thematic coverage of their work, while journalists should consider how their framing choices affect public perception of civil society organizations. This research contributes valuable insights for stakeholders working to support Ukrainian civil society and demonstrates the critical importance of strategic communication for NGOs operating in complex political contexts.

New research demonstrates environmental impact on digital mental health interventions

MESA researchers published findings of their study examining the effects of video background and device type on mental health. The paper is now available in Computers in Human Behavior journal. The project involved 202 college students in an experimental design that assessed mental health outcomes using multiple validated psychological assessment tools.

Key findings revealed that while meditation videos improved mental health across all measures regardless of device type (VR vs. computer), nature-based video backgrounds significantly enhanced outcomes compared to classroom settings, particularly for distress tolerance, psychological well-being, and mood. This research contributes valuable insights into how environmental context in digital meditation resources can be optimized to better support mental health interventions for young adults, demonstrating that the visual environment matters more than the technology platform used for delivery.

Chris Boyington presents at the Strategic Multilayer Assessment Conference

MESA graduate student Chris Boyington presented his research "Balancing Narratives in the Balkans: Strategic Information Engagement in Serbian Media Environments" at the Strategic Multilayer Assessment (SMA) Conference at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland. His paper presents findings from summer 2024 embedded research with the Balkan Security Network in Serbia, where he examined how competing information operations shape Serbian public opinion and geopolitical positioning. Through direct observation, media analysis, and interviews with Serbian journalists and government officials, Chris documented how Russian information operations exploit historical grievances and cultural ties to create anti-Western narratives that complicate Euro-Atlantic integration efforts.

His research identified a "dichotomy of perception" in Serbian public opinion, where emotional pro-Russian sentiment coexists with rational recognition of EU economic benefits, and highlighted successful counter-messaging strategies, including leveraging shared US-Serbian historical cooperation like Operation Halyard. The work demonstrates how strategic communication can create "revolutionary advantage" by addressing both emotional and rational dimensions of audiences in contested narrative environments, offering valuable insights for developing information resilience strategies in regions with complex geopolitical dynamics.

MESA publishes findings on ingroup favoritism and COVID-19 vaccine communication

MESA researchers have published a study titled "Ingroup Favoritism Surrounding COVID-19 Vaccinations in the Hispanic Communities: Experimental Study" that examines how ethnic and linguistic cues influence information-seeking behaviors among Hispanic populations during the pandemic. The research study included participants across Hispanic and non-Hispanic groups and investigated preferences for COVID-19 vaccination information presented through experimental social media pages that varied both the ethnicity of individuals shown in imagery and the language used in messaging.

The study's findings reveal that Hispanic participants showed a significant preference for social media pages featuring Hispanic imagery paired with Spanish text when seeking COVID-19 vaccination information. Notably, the research suggests that visual representation may have an even stronger influence than language alone, demonstrating that incorporating ethnic and linguistic cues that reflect the target audience's identity can significantly enhance engagement and information-seeking behaviors among Hispanic populations.

MESA researchers inducted into Phi Beta Delta International Honors Society

The Epsilon Upsilon Chapter of Phi Beta Delta (PBD), the honor society dedicated to international education and exchange, welcomed two MESA members into its prestigious ranks. Lead Researcher Dr. Skye Cooley and Student Researcher Chris Boyington were inducted during a special ceremony on April 17, 2025. This chapter is supported by OSU Global, which champions international scholarship initiatives across Oklahoma State University. The event also saw Chris Boyington receive the PBD Student Researcher Award for his outstanding contributions to international scholarship.

Dr. Cooley delivered the keynote address titled "Bridging Research Leadership and Global Opportunities." His presentation emphasized the critical role universities play in fostering international research collaboration, particularly in a time of increasing global division. Dr. Cooley shared insights from MESA's successful initiatives, including the upcoming Media Futures training program developed with the US Embassy in Mexico City, which has evolved into a network of partnerships with Mexican institutions. The keynote address emphasized how international academic connections create resilient relationships while addressing complex global challenges. The induction of MESA researchers into Phi Beta Delta further strengthens Oklahoma State University's commitment to international scholarship and cross-cultural research.

Dr. Skye Cooley selected for prestigious ACM Resident Fellows Program

Dr. Skye Cooley has been selected to participate in The American College of the Mediterranean (ACM) Resident Fellows Program in Aix-en-Provence, France for Fall 2025. The program, designed for visiting professors on sabbatical leave, will provide Dr. Cooley the opportunity to integrate into ACM-IAU's academic infrastructure while pursuing his research interests. Fellows have access to faculty, facilities, library, and archives, with many past participants working on books or research projects and collaborating with ACM-IAU professors and students. "I am incredibly honored to be selected to participate in the ACM Resident Fellows Program," said Dr. Cooley. "A huge thank you to Dean Randy Kluver and Director Jared Johnson for helping make this a reality and to Oklahoma State University for the support of my scholarship and continuing to provide me with amazing opportunities at every turn of my career."

Dr. Shin's research explores digital mental health interventions

Dr. Sumin Shin, MESA Researcher, presented the project titled "The Effects of Video Background and Device Type on Mental Health: A Study of Meditation Videos Among College Students" at the 2025 Midwinter AEJMC Conference. This paper investigates how different aspects of meditation videos impact mental health outcomes among university students. The study examines two key variables: video background (classroom versus nature settings) and viewing device (VR versus computer), while measuring effects through standardized mental health assessments.

The research findings suggest that while meditation videos can improve mental health regardless of the viewing device used, the environmental context significantly influences effectiveness. Nature-based meditation videos produce notably better distress tolerance, psychological well-being and mood outcomes than classroom settings. This research contributes valuable insights for designing digital mental health resources for young adults, highlighting that environmental context in meditation videos plays a crucial role in enhancing psychological well-being, while the specific digital device used for viewing appears less influential on outcomes. This study advances our understanding of how media and environmental factors can be optimized in digital health interventions.

Three graduate students participated in this project: Shahariar Khan Nobel, Ralph Dinko and Jungyu Lee.

NSI releases two MESA Group reports

NSI has released two reports supporting the US Strategic Command's comprehensive study on 21st Century Strategic Deterrence Frameworks (SDF). These analyses, produced by MESA Group researchers, examine deterrence from both American and Russian perspectives through 'United States Deterrence Policy: 1944-Present' and 'Evolution of Deterrent Thinking in USSR and Russia: A Look through Military Reports.' The research evaluates current deterrence frameworks, identifies their shortcomings in today's security environment, and proposes alternative deterrence models to address emerging global challenges. This work advances US Strategic Command's mission to develop more effective deterrence strategies for contemporary threats.

Skye Cooley receives OSU Global Engagement Faculty Excellence Award

Dr. Skye Cooley has been awarded the OSU Global Engagement Faculty Excellence Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to international education and engagement.

Dr. Cooley has demonstrated leadership through creating and directing three study abroad programs in Scotland, Austria, and Greece, as well as developing innovative cross-cultural initiatives including the Media Literacy & Disinformation Training Seminar that brought Mexican students and media practitioners to OSU. His recent scholarly work, including the book "Narrative Worldviews of Central American Migration" and research on global communication, enhanced OSU's international reputation while addressing critical worldwide challenges. Through these endeavors, Dr. Cooley has contributed to global education while fostering valuable international partnerships.

National Communication Association honors MESA Research Group with two Top Paper Awards

The MESA Research Group has been recognized at the 110th Annual National Communication Association (NCA) Convention in New Orleans, Louisiana, with two Top Paper Awards in the Communication and Military Division.

The first award-winning paper, "From Nuclear Proliferation to Hybridity: The Evolution of Russian Understandings of Strategic Deterrence," examines the transformation of Russian strategic deterrence concepts. This paper provides crucial insights into how Russian military doctrine has evolved from traditional nuclear deterrence to a more complex hybrid approach. The second honored paper, "Evolving Narratives in Nuclear Issues Discourse: A Multi-Platform Comparative Study," presents an innovative analysis of how nuclear issues discussions have developed across various communication platforms. This comprehensive study contributes valuable understanding to the field of military communication and strategic discourse.

Both papers were presented at the NCA Annual Convention in November 2024, highlighting the MESA Research Group's significant contributions to understanding contemporary military communication and strategic analysis. This dual recognition underscores the group's leadership in advancing scholarly research at the intersection of communication studies and military affairs.

MESA graduate students shine at inaugural Scholar Spotlight event

Three MESA graduate students (Chris Boyington, Shahariar Khan Nobel and Ralph Dinko) presented their research at the inaugural Scholar Spotlight Event, hosted by the SMSC Graduate Student Association. Their presentation, "Voiceless Migrants: Divergent Realities in the Framing of Immigration Narratives Across Social Media Platforms," examined immigration narratives across X, Threads and Truth Social. The study was co-authored by Gerardo Rodriguez, who contributed to the research but was not present at the event.

The study revealed divergent realities in immigration narratives and a lack of migrant perspectives across these platforms. Using mixed methods, the research analyzed framing strategies and misinformation characteristics, emphasizing the need for migrant representation. The findings highlighted platform differences in framing strategies, with Truth Social emerging as a hub for negative portrayals.

This impactful research also earned recognition at the Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC) conference in Philadelphia, winning 3rd place in the open paper call and the Dr. Carolyn Stroman Award for outstanding new members in the Minorities and Communication division.

Watch the video recap, produced by Andy Peprah.

MESA Group publishes new book "Narrative Worldviews of Central American Migration"

The MESA Group researchers have published a new book titled "Narrative Worldviews of Central American Migration: A Multi-vantage Approach." This comprehensive work offers a unique and holistic perspective on Central American migration, drawing from an extensive range of sources including 40 in-depth interviews with diverse stakeholders, analysis of over 50,000 news media articles and examination of more than 50 policy briefs.

The book provides insights from individuals across the Northern Triangle region, the United States and those working both in academia and on the ground. By incorporating a vast array of data and perspectives, including a distinct focus on policy narratives, the authors aim to inform better policies that promote vibrancy and safety throughout the Americas. This publication contributes valuable insights to the ongoing dialogue on Central American migration, mapping out a comprehensive set of narratives and addressing migration holistically.

SMSC appoints Dr. Asya Cooley as Graduate Coordinator

Dr. Asya Cooley has accepted the position of Graduate Coordinator with the School of Media and Strategic Communications (SMSC). In this role, she will oversee the graduate program within the school, providing guidance and support to students pursuing advanced degrees in media and communications fields. Dr. Cooley will be responsible for recruitment, curriculum development, student advising, and program assessment. Her expertise in strategic communication will contribute to enhancing the quality and relevance of the graduate programs. Additionally, she aims to foster transdisciplinary collaborations and expand research opportunities for all graduate students.

MESA researchers complete the Media Literacy & Disinformation Training Seminar

MESA researchers successfully completed the Media Literacy & Disinformation Training Seminar, an innovative program funded by the United States Embassy in Mexico City. This intensive three-week experience brought together 15 diverse Mexican professionals and students to Oklahoma State University. Designed to combat dis/misinformation, the program featured a comprehensive curriculum including a two-week online course followed by a one-week on-site seminar at OSU in Stillwater, Oklahoma. Participants engaged in expert-led lectures, in-depth interviews, hands-on workshops, and cultural activities, culminating in the development of public service announcement projects addressing real-world misinformation challenges in Mexico.

The impact of the program has been significant, with participants reporting substantial improvements in their understanding of media literacy and their ability to combat misinformation. The seminar has not only equipped attendees with critical skills but has also fostered strong networks among participants and with OSU faculty. As a result of the program, two transnational collaborations have been initiated, including a collaborative course built between OSU and Universidad de Comlia, and discussions with the Instituto Esatal de Transparencia in Yucatán to develop a media literacy campaign. The success of this program demonstrates its potential for expansion and adaptation to address misinformation challenges globally, reinforcing OSU's commitment to global engagement and its leadership in addressing pressing societal issues. This seminar was a joint project of OSU School of Media & Strategic Communications, OSU Global, ELIC and OSU Mexico, made possible by funding from the United States Embassy in Mexico City. Read the full report and watch the recap video.

First episode of the Odd Fellows podcast launches

MESA Group researchers Dr. Skye Cooley and Dr. Andrew M. Abernathy launched the Odd Fellows Podcast, where faculty, students, community and industry stakeholders can learn about transformative transdisciplinary research happening at OSU. Listen to Episode I to learn more.

Asya Cooley presents at the International Society for Third Sector Research (ISTR) conference

MESA Group researcher Dr. Asya Cooley presented the paper titled "Ukrainian News Media Representations and Framing of NGOs" at the International Society for Third Sector Research (ISTR) conference hosted by the University of Antwerp in Belgium. The paper analyzed the portrayal of NGOs in Ukrainian news media from 2019 to 2024, finding generally positive coverage focused on activities and information provision, but with limitations in framing that may restrict public understanding of NGOs' broader impact.

This project was conducted by Dr. Asya Cooley and Shahariar Khan Nobel, a graduate student at Oklahoma State University. Undergraduate student Kayla Bacon contributed to this work.

Graduate student Chris Boyington contributes to Balkan Security Network work in Serbia

MESA graduate student Chris Boyington finishes his month-long internship with the Balkan Security Network in Serbia. He shares his reflections on this experience:

"During my month-long stay in Serbia, I had the incredible opportunity to immerse myself in the study of international relations, global strategic communication, and disinformation. This experience, made possible through the support of Oklahoma State University, MESA Group, the Euro Atlantic Initiative, and the Balkan Security Network has been invaluable in furthering my academic and professional aspirations.

One of the highlights of my time in Serbia was the chance to publish an article in Vreme, a highly reputable Serbian magazine. This opportunity allowed me to share my observations and insights with a wider audience, contributing to the broader dialogue on enhancing Serbian - American relations and cross-cultural understanding. Living in Serbia for a month provided a true cultural exchange experience that went far beyond what can be learned in any classroom. I was able to forge meaningful connections with local professionals, academics, and students, gaining firsthand insights into Serbian perspectives on global issues.

As an intern with the Euro Atlantic Initiative, I had the privilege of contributing to their mission of fostering stronger ties between Serbia and Western nations. This hands-on experience in strategic communication has been invaluable in shaping my understanding of international relations in practice. The connections I've made and the experiences I've had have significantly informed my understanding of public diplomacy. I've gained a deeper appreciation for the complexities of global communication and the importance of cultural context in addressing issues of disinformation.

I'm profoundly grateful to have been selected for this opportunity to represent Oklahoma State University, MESA Group, and the Euro Atlantic Initiative. This experience has not only enhanced my personal and professional growth but has also allowed me to contribute to the important work of fostering international understanding and cooperation."

Skye Cooley presents at the Society for the Advancement of Socio-Economics (SASE) annual conference

Dr. Skye Cooley presented the MESA Group paper titled "Navigating the Meta-Crisis: Assessing Nuclear Deterrence Strategies amid Multipolar Pressures" at the Society for the Advancement of Socio-Economics (SASE) annual conference, hosted by the University of Limerick in Ireland. The paper examines the challenges posed by nuclear deterrence approaches in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment characterized by multiple major powers and intersecting global crises. Drawing on an interdisciplinary analysis, the authors evaluate potential strategies for enhancing stability and reducing nuclear risks under these conditions.

MESA Group launches media literacy program to combat disinformation in Mexico

The MESA Group is excited to announce a groundbreaking Media Literacy & Disinformation Training Program aimed at empowering Mexican students to identify and counter the spread of false information. This intensive three-week program, developed by OSU's School of Media & Strategic Communications in collaboration with OSU Global and the English Language and Intercultural Center, will equip participants with critical skills to strengthen fact-based journalism and foster an informed citizenry in Mexico.

The program combines two weeks of online learning modules facilitated by experts in media literacy, propaganda analysis, and verification techniques, followed by a five-day in-person workshop at OSU. Through interactive sessions, case studies, and hands-on simulations, students will gain competencies in information verification, source evaluation, and resilience against false narratives. Cultural exchange and networking opportunities with OSU students and faculty will further enhance the learning experience.

The Media Literacy & Disinformation Training Program is supported by a grant from the US Embassy in Mexico City, with plans for sustained collaboration and expansion to other Latin American nations in the future. OSU remains committed to promoting media literacy and combating modern threats to truth and democracy through innovative educational initiatives.

Nobel presents at the Journalism Education and Trauma Research Group

Graduate student Shahariar Nobel presented the research project "Mitigating Media's Emotional Manipulation: Tools for Journalists" at the Journalism Education and Trauma Research Group meeting in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. This research study recommends that journalists use heart-focused breathing and heart rate variability to lessen emotional hijacking when dealing with upsetting stimuli.

Campbell Clark featured in OSU Global Magazine

MESA student Campbell Clark was featured in OSU Global magazine for his summer 2023 internship in Belgrade, Serbia, made possible by the Don and Cathey Humphreys Travel Grant. As part of his internship with the Balkan Security Network, Clark conducted media analysis of Russian disinformation, while immersing himself in the local culture and language. The Humphreys Travel Grant provides OSU students with unique opportunities for long-term, transformative global learning experiences that go beyond traditional study abroad programs. Read the full story here.

CAS appoints Dr. Skye Cooley as Research Faculty Fellow

Dr. Skye Cooley has accepted the inaugural position of CAS Research Faculty Fellow for Strategic Transdisciplinary Initiatives. In this role, Dr. Cooley will work with the Dean's Office to facilitate and promote interdisciplinary research, provide guidance and resources for faculty, and contribute to the college's strategic vision for boundary-crossing research initiatives.

Dr. Skye Cooley delivers keynote at Great Plains Junior Science and Humanities Symposium

Dr. Skye Cooley delivered the keynote address at the Great Plains Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS) on February 24, 2024. The event, hosted by the National Science Teaching Association and Oklahoma State University Honors College, brought together high school students from across the Great Plains region to present original STEM research projects. The Junior Science and Humanities Symposium is a prestigious national program funded by the U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force. It aims to prepare and encourage high school students to pursue careers in STEM fields.