Dr. Salma Wehrmeyer Nawlo brings 15 years of higher education experience to Polk State College to teach students effective methods for business communications and leadership principles while developing innovative curriculum. Her expertise and professionalism are major contributors to teaching students effective ways to communicate in professional environments, which is an essential skill for a successful career. The content in her courses can be applied in virtually any profession where the ability to communicate effectively across cultural, national and geographic boundaries is essential.

Professional and Academic Background

Nawlo has taught higher education since 2011 and joined Polk State College as a professor of business communication in 2019. She specializes in business communication, leadership and curriculum development. She is recognized for her emphasis on experiential learning that connects classroom study with professional application. Her doctoral research, Reducing Writing Apprehension in College Students Using Self-Annotations: An Explanatory Sequential Mixed Methods Study (2024), introduced advanced strategies for reducing student writing anxiety and strengthening workforce readiness. Drawing from over a decade of corporate experience prior to entering academia, she continues developing innovative methods to meet the evolving needs of students and employers alike.

Leadership and Public Service

Nawlo plays an active role in advancing global learning and student leadership initiatives. She serves on Polk State’s Global Initiatives Committee and directs international study abroad programs in Morocco, creating transformative cross-cultural experiences that integrate business and cultural perspectives. She also participates in a nationally competitive IDEAS Grant, contributing to Polk State’s work in expanding international and experiential education. In addition, she has guided students to the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) state competition and has contributed to statewide initiatives in global and intercultural education, including faculty symposia that highlight international collaboration and communication.

Education

Nawlo earned a Doctor of Education (EdD) from Florida Southern College, with research focused on writing apprehension and metacognitive strategies. She also holds a Master of Business Administration (MBA), a Master of Arts in Journalism and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication.