August 14, 2025
In our Affiliate Highlights series, we share short interviews with members of our community, offering a glimpse into their research, interests, and what inspires their work. This year, we are randomly selecting assistant and associate professors from our Affiliates program.
Each feature includes a few brief questions (nothing too serious!) to help spark connections, highlight new opportunities, and maybe even introduce you to your next collaborator. This month, get to know Cassandra Troy!
Cassandra Troy | assistant professor, journalism
What are your main research interests?
There are many urgent problems threatening environmental and human wellbeing, such as climate change, air pollution, and plastic pollution. I am interested in the role that media plays in shaping people’s beliefs about how they can or should respond to these issues. One main portion of my work investigates how solutions- and future-focused messaging can empower people to take action on environmental issues. Another segment of my research considers how organizational advocacy around sustainability affects support for both the organization and pro-environmental action. Ultimately, I hope my work can help communicators, educators, and organizations equip groups and individuals to respond to complex threats like climate change.
How do you see your work connecting with others for collaboration?
My research is well-suited for collaboration on projects that involve some kind of public outreach or strategic messaging component. This could involve efforts to educate people about environmental threats, raise awareness of environmental solutions, engage audiences with creative environmental messaging, or build confidence in people’s own abilities to act in response to an environmental issue. I’m looking forward to connecting with others on campus who are interested in these topics!
What is something you’re passionate about outside of work?
I love reading sci-fi, gardening, cooking, painting, and trying new recipes. Book and restaurant recommendations are always welcome.