Tess has been an advisor to DA for several years and is an academic and applied communication researcher based in the United States. She holds a Ph.D. in Health and Strategic Communication from Chapman University, where she currently serves as an Instructional Assistant Professor. Her teaching and research focus on persuasion and social influence, particularly within health and political contexts.

With expertise in both qualitative and quantitative methods, Tess investigates how mediated and interpersonal messages shape attitudes and decision-making. She also supports the design and implementation of communication campaigns for private and government agencies, with an emphasis on culturally sensitive, theory-driven mass communication strategies. Her work bridges academic inquiry and applied practice, with a commitment to ethical and impactful communication.