Today we’d like to introduce you to Judy Oskam.
Hi Judy, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m Judy Oskam — a mom, university administrator, professor, coach, and podcaster. I’m passionate about helping people grow, adapt, and thrive.
I’m proud to serve as the director of the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Texas State University, one of the largest accredited programs in the country. Since stepping into this role in 2012, my focus has been simple: support students and faculty, champion creativity, and connect classroom learning to the real world. I teach undergraduate courses in public relations and mass communications, and a graduate course on creativity— one of my favorite subjects.
Before coming to Texas State, I was an associate professor at Texas Tech University, and earlier in my career, I worked as a television journalist in Texas and Oklahoma. I’ve also spent time leading public affairs and outreach initiatives at Oklahoma State University and The University of Texas System. Those early years taught me the power of communication — and the importance of perseverance..
I earned my undergraduate degree in Radio/TV/Film from the University of North Texas, then later went on to earn both my master’s in Mass Communications and my doctorate in Higher Education Administration from Oklahoma State University. I’m accredited in Public Relations (APR) by the Public Relations Society of America, and I’m a certified coach through Gallup Strengths, Tiny Habits, and Thrive Global. Throughout my journey, one thing has remained constant: I’m deeply committed to personal and professional development, both for myself and for those around me.
In 2025, I took the TEDx stage at Texas State University to share a message that’s shaped my life: you grow by taking action and figuring it out along the way. Life isn’t about waiting for the perfect moment — it’s about stepping forward, even when the path isn’t clear. And education isn’t about having all the right answers, it’s about asking the right questions.
That belief also inspired my podcast, *Stories of Change and Creativity*, where I highlight conversations with artists, professors, entrepreneurs, writers, innovators, and everyday changemakers. Through these stories, I share how resilience, creativity, and adaptability lead to meaningful change.
My greatest pride is my family. My husband Felix and I are the proud parents of two amazing adult daughters, Danielle and Jessica. They inspire me each and every day.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Like everyone, I’ve faced countless moments of uncertainty — times when the path forward wasn’t clear, and I had to find the courage to take a first step anyway.
I didn’t always have the answers. I wasn’t always fully prepared. But by taking action and figuring it out along the way, I discovered the real magic happens outside of our comfort zones.
As a professor and coach, I want my students and colleagues — to find their path forward and create a life of purpose. In my personal life, I’ve experienced challenges like infertility. But this challenge led us to international adoption where we built our family through persistence, hope, and action.
This mindset has carried me through every challenge and opportunity. And you can do it too.
I invite you to watch my TEDx talk, Why you should take action – then figure it out. I hope you’ll be inspired to take bold steps in your own life.
You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to start.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
I am honored to serve as the director and a professor in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication. In my role, I work to provide opportunities for faculty and students to succeed at the university and in life.
I’m most proud of our student accomplishments and faculty success. Our students are amazing – and together with our award-winning faculty, they learn, grow and excel.
With more than 2000 majors, our undergraduate program is one of only three public universities in Texas accredited by the Accrediting Council for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication. As a professional program, all of our faculty have years of experience in media, journalism and strategic communication.
The students in our Master of Arts in Digital Media are working on real-world projects with businesses, professionals and organizations. In fall 2025, we will launch a new Master of Arts degree in Strategic Communication.
What are your plans for the future?
I look forward to continuing to advance the School of Journalism and Mass Communication by working with our accomplished graduates and friends.
Personally, I am excited about releasing more podcast episodes with interesting guests who share their journey about how they overcome obstacles and deal with change.
I also look forward to sharing the importance of knowing your strengths and natural talents. As a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach – I’ve seed the impact knowing your superpowers has on students and professionals. And knowing how to apply your strengths using the Tiny Habits Method is magic.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.judyoskam.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjudyoskam/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judyoskam/
- Other: https://www.changeandcreativity.com
Image Credits
TXST TEDx 2025
