Dr. Julie Welker serves as Chair of the Department of Communication and Professor of Communication at Howard Payne University. With 30 years of teaching experience, including 28 years at HPU, she has dedicated her career to preparing students to become skilled communicators, thoughtful leaders and Christ-centered professionals who make a meaningful impact in their communities and careers.
Dr. Welker teaches strategic communication courses on a rotating basis and especially enjoys two classes that represent opposite ends of a student’s academic journey. She loves teaching COM 1310 because it allows her to welcome and encourage first-year students as they begin their college experience. She also enjoys COM 4310, where students explore communication theory and discover how foundational principles strengthen every aspect of strategic communication.
The relationships she builds with students are the most rewarding part of teaching at Howard Payne. Whether sharing coffee, discussing life’s challenges or mentoring students through academic and professional goals, Dr. Welker values the opportunity to invest in their personal, intellectual and spiritual growth. Watching students discover their passions, develop confidence and succeed both in and beyond the classroom is one of the greatest joys of her work.
Dr. Welker believes effective communication is one of the most valuable skills a person can develop. In a world where misunderstandings are common, she is passionate about helping students become intentional, ethical and effective communicators. She teaches that strong communication not only prepares graduates for successful careers but also equips them to serve their families, churches and communities with wisdom, compassion and integrity.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Communication with minors in kinesiology and education, a Master of Arts in Communication and a Doctor of Philosophy in Communication. Throughout her career, she has contributed numerous publications and conference presentations in the field of communication.
Beyond the classroom, Dr. Welker has faithfully invested in Howard Payne students through a variety of leadership opportunities. For more than two decades, she has directed and coached the Student Speaker Bureau Speech and Debate Team, leading students to multiple national championships and state recognitions. She has also directed HPU’s Summer and Young Scholars programs for 20 years and has led more than 20 international study trips to destinations including England, Germany, Greece, Italy, France, Ireland and Scotland, providing students with valuable cross-cultural learning experiences.
Outside of campus, Dr. Welker is a lifelong horsewoman who enjoys teaching riding lessons and participating in equestrian events. She is also an avid bird watcher, having documented bird species for more than 25 years. A seventh-generation Texan, she is an active member of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas. She and her husband, Rob, are both Howard Payne graduates and are celebrating 30 years of marriage. Dr. Welker is an active member of Coggin Avenue Baptist Church, where she serves on the Coffee Team and participates in the ABIDE Sunday School class.
