Erin Okamoto Protsman, M.A.

Continuing Lecturer, Communication and Creative Arts

Basic Course Coordinator, Communication and Creative Arts

Introduction

Erin Okamoto Protsman teaches a variety of classes in the communication field.

Research Overview

Okamoto Protsman co-wrote and co-produced Without Due Process, a documentary chronicling her family’s experiences in the WWII Japanese American concentration camps. She is updating the documentary and is currently conducting additional interviews of camp survivors, historians and due process experts.

I wrote two books for the Museum of Science and Industry. "A Season of Celebrating" is a cookbook featuring the tried-and-true recipes of a variety of Chicago area cultural groups. "Traditions" celebrates holiday stories and folklore from around the world. Working with the community groups on these projects was one of the great joys of my life.

Teaching Focus

Okamoto Protsman teaches the Freshman Year Experience class for communication majors, communication theory, mass media, communication ethics and public speaking. She encourages students to make connections between the material and their daily lives, both personally and professionally. She received a Teaching Incentive Program award for outstanding teaching in 2021 and serves as faculty advisor to Lambda Pi Eta, the communication honor society.

Previous Roles

Okamoto Protsman worked at Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry for nine years in project management, quality training and public relations. Okamoto Protsman managed many projects and temporary exhibits, including the Christmas Around the World and the Holidays of Light festivals.

Lionhearted Leaders: Erin Okamoto Protsman

Erin Okamoto Protsman’s students do deep dives and have ongoing, open discussions on how culture influences the way we send, receive, and interpret messages.

Meet Professor Okamoto Protsman