College of Liberal Arts and Sciences

Ryan R. Montague is an assistant professor of communication studies at Azusa Pacific University. Ryan is also an interpersonal communication scholar, which means he focuses on the initiation, development, and sustainability/dissolution of personal relationships. Ryan teaches interpersonal communication, family communication, and research methods.

Ryan is slightly obsessed with the analysis of the “afterlife of a conversation,” which refers to the lasting impact a conversation has on a person or relationship long after it occurs. Ryan firmly believes that we, as a collective, need to approach every conversation as if it has the potential to change the trajectory of either our life or the life of the person with whom we are communicating. He affirms that the best way to accomplish this is by developing a grand passion for people, expanding our ability to make insightful distinctions in conversation, and consistently striving to bring about positive outcomes in our relationships.

Ryan uses a quote from famous psychiatrist Viktor Frankl to guide his teaching and advising: “The meaning of my life is to help others find the meaning of theirs.” Ryan became a professor because he experienced a calling to help the next generation of college students discover their true passions and desires in life. Furthermore, Ryan strives to help students find a way to set themselves up for a promising career that capitalizes on their unique strengths, passions, and desires.