Rebecca Swenson's research program focuses on how topics and debates related to agriculture, food, and the environment are discussed in the media, by organizations and among audience members. Specifically, Rebecca Swenson studies concepts like community, engagement and dialogue that are core to understanding communication’s role in building relationships. Her current projects explore how agricultural and food organizations can use digital and social media to better engage the public and various stakeholder groups on food, farming and environmental issues. Rebecca Swenson teaches agricultural communication & marketing courses in CFANS at the UMN.