Language and Communication are very unique topics. When you look at a complex math formula, you immediately recognize it as a complex math formula. When someone talks about World War II, you instantly know to place it through a filter of the past. However, though we spend much of our time absorbing, transcribing, and talking about complicated information, it’s often done subconsciously. Of course, this allows for the inherent culture and personality present within each of our vernaculars and vocabularies to flourish and grow. Still, it can also represent the more nuanced quality, meaning, and effectiveness within how we each interact.

Cynthia Johnson (or “CJ”), a full-time Communications professor, adjunct Psychology professor, and COS’ Language and Communications Division Chair, believes that having a good understanding of both Language and Communication is imperative to navigating society. She states:
“The more effective your communication, the more effective your relationships. And if you think about it, that’s really what, in essence, we as human beings have that defines who we are and what creates our identity and connection to others”.

After obtaining her Master’s Degree in Communication from Fresno State University, Johnson moved to Visalia in 1997 to begin her career at the College of the Sequoias. She then obtained her Masters in Psychology while pregnant, working full-time, and raising a toddler.

With so much accomplished, it’s inspiring to know that Johnson also carries her experience with her outside of COS, where she runs her own motivational speaking company named CommCO. As owner and Chief Consultant, she handles anything from leadership training and conflict resolution in the workplace to marital counseling and coaching. In addition, she also enjoys spending time in nature, with friends, writing novels, doing voice-over work, and has even authored two textbooks. Her comments on such remain humble: “I just like to stay intellectually stimulated, I think.”

As the interview closes, Johnson gives special remarks about the opportunities and experiences provided to her by students. She says, “I may be knowledgeable in the area of communication or psychology, but my students, regardless if they’re 18 or 40, bring these experiences that I’ve never had. And so I love to learn from them.”

If you’re interested in learning more about Language and Communication, more information can be found at:
https://www.cos.edu/en-us/academics/language-communication
Additional Language information can be found at: https://www.cos.edu/en-us/academics/language-communication/language-center