By Ashlyn Beck | Staff Writer
New Baylor assistant professor Dr. Rosalynn Vasquez shares her story in the journalism and public relations field and encourages students to stand up for what they believe in.
Vasquez was born in Lima, Peru, and moved to the U.S. when she was 2 years old. Vasquez now does research in the field of diversity, equity and inclusion and said her background contributed to her passion for DEI.
“As a woman of color … I wanted to find a place that I felt was authentic for myself,” Vasquez said. “And so I ended up finding that space in sustainability and … diversity, equity, inclusion.”
According to Vasquez, her research revealed that many women of color feel discriminated against and belittled in the workplace, specifically in the field of public relations.
“At the end of the day, we are recognizing differences, but we’re celebrating the differences because that’s what makes us unique,” Vasquez said. “And we’re complementing each other to be better. It’s not about looking for conflict or looking for confrontation. It’s about looking for ways to work together and build together.”
Vasquez said her work in public relations and research in DEI transferred into her teaching career, and she strives to make her classroom a comfortable environment for all of her students.
“I can’t tell you how many times I’ve had students of color come up to me … and say, ‘I’ve never had a Latina professor before. You’re the first one, and you have fought. You have shown me that there’s space for me in this field. It shows me that we need to be here. I need to be here. It’s OK to be here,’” Vasquez said.
Dr. Marlene Neill, associate professor and graduate program director for the department, worked alongside Vasquez in DEI research and now works alongside her as a Baylor professor. Neill said Vasquez’s passion is evident in her work.
“She’s got the practical experience that’s important in our department due to the fact that journalism and public relations are focused on practical skills,” Neill said. “She’s very well respected for her scholarship and the research that she’s producing, and so I’m very excited about her potential in that area.”
Vasquez said she wants to not only teach her students about journalism and public relations but also get to know them and create a space of honesty.
“I truly believe when you have that type of environment, you will thrive better,” Vasquez said. “So I really try to be as authentic as possible and let them find their safe space in my classroom.”
Vasquez said she urges students to not give up on projects they’re passionate about, even when they feel discouraged.
“If you’re told no or if you’re discouraged from trying to follow something that you’re really passionate about, don’t forget it,” Vasquez said. “It doesn’t mean you can’t do it ever. Maybe you won’t be able to do it at that moment, but don’t let it go. Find a way to come back to it.”
Vasquez said that while many students and professors focus on hard skills in journalism, such as writing and designing, she thinks students should put effort into cultivating relational skills as well.
“Knowing how to manage emotions, knowing how to be aware of your surroundings, self-awareness, social awareness, just understanding how to get along with people and being resourceful in that aspect, I think is really important,” Vasquez said.
Vasquez also said that due to her Latina heritage, she is able to bring empathy to the workplace for others who haven’t been represented.
“I try to really bring their perspective and elevate their voices because we need to hear those voices,” Vasquez said. “Those have been missing voices for so long.”
