Eastern Communication Association

Philosophy of Communication Interest Group
The 118th Annual Convention of the Eastern Communication Association
Full Circle
Hyatt Regency, Reston, Virginia
March 30–April 4, 2027
Submission Deadline: October 9, 2026, 11:59 pm PST  

The Eastern Communication Association will hold its 118^th Annual Convention at the Hyatt Regency Reston in Reston, VA, from March 30 to April 4, 2027. “Full Circle” serves as the convention theme, and the deadline for submissions is October 9, 2026, at 11:59 P.M. (PST). 

The Philosophy of Communication Interest Group seeks individual paper, panel, and roundtable submissions centered on the convention theme of “Full Circle.” This convention theme invites reflection on the cyclical nature of ideas, relationships, and professional journeys. As scholars, we return — to foundational theories, to formative mentors, to the first questions that drew us to the discipline. As a profession, we cycle through waves of innovation and consolidation, of challenge and recommitment to core values. As an organization, ECA itself comes full circle to Virginia — renewing its connections to the region and communities where communication scholarship meets democratic life. This theme invites consideration of ideas, movements, and trends that recur throughout the history of philosophy of communication. 

The Philosophy of Communication Interest Group welcomes completed paper, panel, and roundtable submissions that address the conference theme “Full Circle” from a variety of philosophical and methodological vantage points. Some guiding questions may include the following:

• How do foundational questions in philosophy of communication come full circle in contemporary communication scholarship and pedagogy?
• How does the notion of a “hermeneutic circle” frame the scholarly pursuit of understanding, interpretation, and application?
• What concepts, debates, or traditions within philosophy of communication have come "full circle," and what new possibilities emerge through their reconsideration?
• How can a return to disciplinary origins reveal new directions for philosophy of communication in the remainder of the 21^st century?
• What problems, limitations, or complexities continue to reappear in contemporary communication theory, and what ethical issues need critique and redirection?
• What does it mean philosophically for communication itself to come “full circle,” and what are the implications of that claim for the future of humanity and the universe?

Types of Submissions

The Philosophy of Communication Interest Group welcomes proposals, regardless of affiliation, for individual papers, panels, workshops, and round tables..

When submitting a paper, complete the following Attendee Interactive fields:

• Title
• Author/s
• Abstract
• Categories: Indicate if student and/or debut paper and/or a work-in-progress
• Additional Information — Scheduling & Special Requests: Please identify any accommodations associated with physical or religious needs that may impact scheduling.
• Documents: Upload Main Document (Must be BLIND. Accepted file types are Word and PDF.)

At the bottom of the cover page, please include the following statement of professional responsibility: In submitting the attached paper, I/We recognize that this submission is considered a professional responsibility. I/We agree to present this paper if it is accepted and programmed. I/We further recognize that all who attend and present at ECA’s annual meeting must register and pay required fees.

When submitting a panel, complete the following Attendee Interactive fields:

• Title
• Chair/Respondents
• Abstracts: Add individual presentation titles, descriptions, and presenters
• Panel Description
• Rationale
• Documents: Upload any relevant documents. (Must be BLIND. Accepted file types are Word and PDF.)
• Additional Information — Scheduling & Special Requests: Please identify any accommodations associated with physical or religious needs that may impact scheduling.

In the document, please include the following statement of professional responsibility: In submitting the attached proposal, I/We recognize that this submission is considered a professional responsibility. I/We agree to present this panel if it is accepted and programmed. I/We further recognize that all who attend and present at ECA’s annual meeting must register and pay required fees.

When submitting a round table, complete the following Attendee Interactive fields:

• Title
• Participants: Enter Chair and Featured Expert/s information
• Round Table Description (100 words or less)
• Rationale
• Documents: Upload any relevant documents. (Must be BLIND. Accepted file types are Word and PDF.)
• Additional Information — Scheduling & Special Requests: Please identify any accommodations associated with physical or religious needs that may impact scheduling.
• Target Audience: Describe the intended audience, including who would most benefit from attending.

In the document, please include the following statement of professional responsibility: In submitting the attached proposal, I/We recognize that this submission is considered a professional responsibility. I/We agree to present if it is accepted and programmed. I/We further recognize that all who attend and present at ECA’s annual meeting must register and pay required fees.

Technology A/V Availability

The 2027 Convention will be equipped with technology capabilities. A projector, screen, sound, wireless mouse and slide advancer, and Wi-Fi will be available in most breakout rooms. Submitters will note in their submission if they request technology as part of their presentation. Best efforts will be given to ensure those that request technology have access. Presenters must supply their own laptop. Google Slides and PowerPoint templates featuring the convention theme and logo are available on the convention tab of the website. We encourage all attendees to take full advantage of these resources to create engaging presentations!

How to Submit

All submissions must be uploaded and processed through Attendee Interactive (AI), accessed through https://ww4.aievolution.com/eca2701/. For additional information about the upcoming convention, please visit ECA’s website http://www.ecasite.org/.

Questions? Contact your Interest Group Planner: 

Michael Kearney, Dordt University, michael.kearney@dordt.edu

Acceptance Notifications: January 2027