Yolanda Cal

Associate Professor

Yolanda Cal

Professional profile

Dr. Yolanda Cal is an associate professor in the College of Communication and Design. She received her Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin and has been working as an educator and communications consultant for over 20 years. Before coming to Lynn, she served on the faculties of Alabama State University, Loyola University New Orleans and Florida International University.

Education

  • Doctor of Philosophy in Advertising, The University of Texas at Austin
  • Master of Arts, Advertising and Public Relations, The University of Alabama
  • Bachelor of Arts, English Literature, The University of Alabama

Teaching philosophy

Cal is an advocate for student-centric education, recognizing the potential of today's learners and the unique needs of Lynn University's student body. Embracing an approach to educate the whole student, her courses empower students to navigate real-world scenarios through practical applications and a project-based curriculum.

Cal tailors her assignments to acknowledge the diverse starting points of each student. She creates a learning environment where students can progress at their individual pace while immersing themselves in essential advertising and PR principles and strategic skills. Through assignments that encompass oral presentations and writing, her classes ensure that students are equipped with tools that seamlessly transition into their future careers. The essence of her pedagogical approach centers on not only imparting knowledge to her students but also empowering them to develop self-motivation. Upon leaving her classroom, students carry rich insights, are more adept at research and critical thinking, and are ready to face their futures with confidence.

Cal's guiding principle can be summed up this way: "Building a supportive rapport fosters a positive learning experience."

Teaching specialties

  • Advertising and PR Principles
  • Creative Strategy
  • Multicultural Communication

Areas of scholarship

Fostering women and minority roles in leadership in advertising and PR

Awards and honors

  • Selected by President Kevin M. Ross to attend the Ashoka U Exchange conference, in which the agenda focused on three key pillars of leadership critical to transform higher education into a tool for social impact.
  • As an International Communications Consultant, audited USAID's communications strategy to develop an integrated strategy and executed an awareness campaign that increased awareness of USAID's contributions to health programs abroad.
  • As assistant dean, Cal played an integral role in the College of International Communication at the Palm Beaches Student Showcase of Films. She collaborates closely with Palm Beach Film Commission staff and notable celebrities including the late acting and directing legend, Burt Reynolds and rapper-turned-entrepreneur Vanilla Ice.