Georgia Communication Association
2025 Annual Conference and Film Festival
February 6th-8th
The University of West Georgia, Carrollton GA
Submissions are due Fri, Nov 15, 2024
GCA invites paper, panel, and GIFTS (Great Ideas for Teaching Speech) proposals from faculty, students, and professionals.
Both applied and research-based presentations are sought. Adjunct faculty, graduate student, and undergraduate student participation is encouraged. We especially welcome submissions from newcomers to the organization!
This year, submissions will be sent through our website portal. To submit, you must make a free account on the site. Once you are logged into the website, you will see the “Submission Central” link in the 2025 Conference menu. You do not have to purchase a membership prior to submitting your proposal. Purchases for memberships and conference registration will be available soon.
Reviewers will determine winners for a competitive Top Paper and Top Presentation, with separate categories for students. Please submit your best work!
**Whether or not you submit, we welcome volunteer reviewers for panels, papers, and other forms of submissions. If you are willing to review for GCA 2025, please send an email directly to christian.norman@mga.edu
Submission Formats
Paper Presentation (10-15 min) Similar papers may be grouped in a session. Submit an Author(s), Title, and Category. Submit a 250 Word Abstract into the text box, and attach a synopsis of the complete paper and works cited (1-3 pages). Alternatively, we encourage submission of full papers, which will qualify for the Top Paper award. To submit a qualifying paper, submit a 250 Word Abstract into the text box, and attach a completed paper and bibliography (25 pages max).
Panel Presentation (45 min) Intended for multiple presenters that may include faculty, students, and/or community partners, ideally with an interactive component. Submit Panelists (minimum 2), Title, and Category. Submit a 250 word abstract into the text box, and attach a document with a biography of panelists (1 paragraph each) and an annotated bibliography of relevant materials (annotation of 1 paragraph or less per source, 3 pages max).
Roundtable Discussion (45 min) A presenter-facilitated discussion allowing for deeper engagement with an idea, trend, program, or research topic. Submit a Presenter(s), Title, and Category. Submit a 250 word abstract into the text box, and attach a document with a biography of presenters (1 paragraph each) and an annotated bibliography of relevant materials (annotation of 1 paragraph or less per source, 3 pages max).
Interactive Workshop (45 min) Allows faculty, students, and/or communication practitioners to actively teach models for engaged or community-based learning. Submit a Presenter(s), Title, and Category. Submit a 250 word abstract into the text box, and attach a document with a biography of presenters (1 paragraph each) and an annotated bibliography of relevant materials (annotation of 1 paragraph or less per source, 3 pages max).
Immersive Experience (90 min) A longer-form interactive workshop allowing for extended time to examine a singular topic or issue in depth. Submit a Presenter(s), Title, and Category. Submit a 250 word abstract into the text box, and attach a document with a biography of presenters (1 paragraph each) and an annotated bibliography of relevant materials (annotation of 1 paragraph or less per source, 3 pages max).
“Great Ideas for Teaching Students”/GIFTS (5 minute max) Submit an abbreviated classroom idea, assignment, or activity that inspires innovative teaching and learning. Submit an Author(s), Title, and Category. Submit a 250 word abstract into the text box, and attach a document with a biography of presenters (1 paragraph each) and an annotated bibliography of relevant materials (annotation of 1 paragraph or less per source, 3 pages max).
*Submissions without the appropriate attached materials will not be considered*
Submission Categories
Categories have been revised from past years. Please choose your best fit.
Argumentation and Forensics
Communication Theory and Methodology
Gender, Identity, Inclusion, and Justice Studies
Health Communication
Instructional Development, Pedagogy, and Scholarship of Teaching and Learning
Interpersonal and Small Group Communication
Intercultural Communication
Games and Communication
Language and Social Interaction
Film, Theater, and Performance Studies
Journalism and Mass Communication
Cultural Studies and New Media
Organization and Business Communication
Public Relations, Advertising, and Strategic Communication
Rhetoric and Politics
Film Festival
The Georgia Communication Association Film Festival (GCAFF) is an annual student film festival presented by the Georgia Communication Association (GCA). GCA was established in 1931 with the purpose of fostering interest in communication studies, arts, and education. It is the state affiliate of the National Communication Association. GCAFF showcases outstanding films and videos made by students at GCA member institutions in Georgia. We seek to highlight students’ inspiring work that reflects their creative voices and unique talents. The festival screening will take place on Friday, February 9, 2025, at The University of West Georgia, as part of GCA.
Online submissions will be accepted soon. More details to follow.
Submission Categories: Documentary, Narrative, Music video, PSA video.