Communication Studies Teaching Assistants 2025-2026


Michael.pngMichael A.C 

  michael.castillo@mnsu.edu  

Michael holds a BS in Communication Studies with a concentration in Diversity and Public Culture, and a minor in Journalism from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Now pursuing an MA in Communication and Media, he’s focused on leadership development. Originally from San Diego, Michael has mentored students through AmeriCorps and worked in broadcasting with MavRadio, iHeartMedia, and MAV-FM. His love for punk and indie rock continues to shape his perspective—and yes, he still plays guitar and sings.  

JawadJawad ul Karim Chowdhury 

  jawadulkarim.chowdhury@mnsu.edu  

Jawad completed his undergraduate studies in English Language & Literature at Jahangirnagar University and is now enrolled in the Communication and Media graduate program. His interests span communication, language, and media studies. He’s a fan of Messi, pizza, and Coke—classic trio.  


DorcasDorcas Ekeanyanwu

dorcas.ekeanyanwu@mnsu.edu

Dorcas has a B.S. in Mass Communication from Adeleke University in Nigeria. She is currently pursuing her M.S. in Communication Studies and is also working as a graduate assistant for the Department of Communication Studies. She is goal-oriented and believes that everything is achievable through determination; she also has a passion for sharing knowledge, loves babies, and listening to music. After graduation, Dorcas wants to pursue a career in public relations.


Sydney DuMond.jpegAbeed Kasem

  adeeb.kasem@mnsu.edu  

Adeeb holds a BA in Philosophy from the University of California, Irvine and is currently pursuing an MA in Communication and Media Studies. His scholarly focus lies in theory and methodology. In his free time, Adeeb enjoys sketching and painting.  


Profile photo for Abeed KasemEmmanuel Karikari

Emmanuel.karikari@mnsu.edu

My name is Emmanuel Karikari. I am the last of three children born into a family of five. Hailing from the eastern part of Ghana I was raised in the coastal part of Ghana and had most of my education there. I earned my bachelor’s degree in religious studies at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology. Growing up, I was not one of a communicative person. Growing up I have been a lover of sport and football (soccer) has been my passion. My love for sports has inspired me to pursue this communication program. My academic interest revolves around communication in the sports industry. And I will strive to be one of the best in this field.


Profile photo for NazifaNazifa Khatun

  nazifa.khatun@mnsu.edu

Nazifa earned her Bachelor of Journalism from Stamford University Bangladesh and is now pursuing an MA in Communications and Media. Her academic interests center on communication theory and practice. Outside of academia, she enjoys volleyball, basketball, and cheering on hockey games.  


Profile photo for Nana Nana Akua Owusu-Kumah  

nanaakua.owusu-kumah@mnsu.edu  

With a BA in French, Classics, Philosophy, and Theatre Studies, Nana is now pursuing an MA in Communication and Media. She’s especially interested in the intersection of digital communication and social impact. Nana enjoys movies and sign language—and can sign the entire alphabet with her non-dominant hand.    


Profile photo for Manny ReyesManny Reyes 

manuel.reyes.2@mnsu.edu

Manny holds a BS in Political Science and an MA in Communication from the University of Central Missouri. Now pursuing an MFA in Forensics and Communication, Manny coaches the MNSU Speech and Debate team and serves the campus community on Student Government.  


abdur.jpgAbdur Razzak Sarker

  mdabdur.sarker@mnsu.edu  

Abdur earned both B.S.S and M.S.S degrees in Journalism and Mass Communication from Daffodil International University, Bangladesh. Now pursuing an MA in Communication and Media, he’s passionate about political communication, health communication policy, and organizational culture. With a decade of journalism experience—including award-winning work at The Daily Prothom Alo—Abdur brings deep professional insight to his academic journey.


Jonah.jphgJonah Stafford

  jonah.stafford@mnsu.edu  

Jonah holds a B.A. in Public Relations and Digital Media from Saint Mary's University of Minnesota and is currently pursuing an MS in Communication and Composition. Passionate about pedagogy, Jonah aims to empower students with strong written and verbal communication skills for success in and beyond college. Fun fact: Jonah worked at Walt Disney World as part of the Disney College Program in Fall 2023.  


TahuraTahura Tabassum Tari 

2025-26 Nadine B. Andreas Graduate Research Assistant
 

Hello! I am Tahura Tabassum Tari. I hold a B.S.S and M.S.S degree in Mass Communication and Journalism from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. Now, I am pursuing my M.A. in Communication and Media at Minnesota State University, Mankato. I have 3 years of experience in the journalism field as a sub-editor and worked in the top national business daily. Later, I worked as the page-in-charge for the international politics and business desk. I am interested in obtaining a Ph.D. in Communication with the goal of teaching about social and gender identity, new media, and communication at a university. I believe in diversity, equity and inclusivity at work. I am highly passionate about helping the students. So, feel free to reach me!