Heather McLaughlin

Dr. McLaughlin joined Olivet’s full-time faculty in 2014 and became chair of the department in 2020. She teaches various hands-on courses in multimedia production, including non-linear editing, multimedia storytelling, corporate video production and studio production. Dr. McLaughlin is well-versed in Adobe Creative software products, various content management systems, and proficient in the operation of HD video and still cameras. Dr. McLaughlin also leads departmental mission trips, where students use their communication skills in real-world, cross-cultural environments. Additionally, she teaches communication courses for the MBA and MOL programs in Olivet’s School of Graduate and Continuing Studies.

Her career achievements provide one more illustration of her love for technology and her versatility. She developed and implemented a multimedia web platform called “theBox” for MidAmerica Nazarene University’s multimedia program and student media. The Telly Awards she received for the University of Kansas TV commercials and promotional videos testify to her production skills. She has also received numerous bronze, silver and gold awards in regional and national competition sponsored by the Council for the Advancement and Support of Education (CASE). During her career, Dr. McLaughlin served as associate director of digital media and senior video editor in the Office of Marketing Communications at the University of Kansas for six years; worked in public relations at MidAmerica Nazarene University for eight years; and has more than 20 years of freelance media production experiences with clients like Garmin International, Research Medical Center Residency, and Golden Bell Camp and Conference Center.

Prior to joining Olivet’s faculty, she was an adjunct professor at MidAmerica for 12 years, teaching multimedia, video and photography courses. She is a member of several organizations including Broadcast Education Association, Associated Collegiate Press/College Media Association, Central State Communication Association, and National Communication Association.

In her time away from campus, she enjoys traveling and making smoothies with her husband, Corey.

Her other interests include organizing, photography, cake decorating and personal finance. Her father, Ron Attig, and mother, Ann, are professor emeriti at Nazarene Bible College, Colorado Springs, Colorado.