Education

B.A., Mass Communication, Winthrop University
M.A., Journalism, University of South Carolina

Background

Shamira McCray has nearly a decade of journalism experience covering health, science, crime and politics in South Carolina. Her research explores topics such as media framing effects, agenda-building, race and health. She is especially interested in how media shape public understanding of our world and influence perceptions of marginalized communities.

Shamira's goal is to use research as a tool — not only to inform best practices in journalism and mass communication, but also to help educate and support the next generation of media professionals. She has taught classes in media writing and mass communication research.

Research Interests

media framing effects, agenda-building, race, health communication and political communication

Awards

2025-2026 Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication - Mass Communication and Society Division Diversity and Inclusion Career Development Fellow

2024 Graduate Student Excellence in Teaching Award - University of South Carolina School of Journalism and Mass Communications

2024 Second Place Winner, Moeller Research Competition - Mass Communication and Society Division, Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication Annual Conference, Philadelphia

2024 First Place Winner, Top Faculty Paper (With Dr. Kenneth Campbell) - Religion and Media Interest Group, Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication Annual Conference, Philadelphia