Dr. Step received her undergraduate and graduate training in communication studies and has taught public speaking, interpersonal communication, nonverbal communication, persuasion and media effects. She is a trained group facilitator and was recently certified as an Executive Coach through the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. Dr. Step also completed a NCI-sponsored postdoctoral fellowship in cancer prevention and control at the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center. Her research reflects various clinical communication processes, including breast cancer decision-making, prognosis discussion, cancer prevention in primary care, tobacco dependency and cessation, HIV support and health related social media. She has secured over $4 million in funding as a primary or co-investigator of independently sponsored projects. She currently serves as a member of the Planning & Oversight committee of Cuyahoga County Alcoholism, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services Board.
Education
- Ph.D., Communication Studies, Kent State University, 1998
- MACT, Communication Studies, Cleveland State University, 1992
- BA, Communication Studies, Cleveland State University, 1990