2026 Fellow of the Rhetoric Society of America: Kent Ono

University of Utah Professor Kent A. Ono Named Fellow of the Rhetoric Society of America. The College of Humanities proudly announces that Kent A. Ono, Distinguished Professor of Communication and Provost's Fellow at the University of Utah, has been named a 2026 Fellow of the Rhetoric Society of America (RSA), the highest honor bestowed by the nation's leading scholarly organization dedicated to the study of rhetoric. 

RSA Fellow status recognizes scholars whose careers have made extraordinary and lasting contributions to rhetorical studies through research, teaching, mentorship and professional service. The honor places Ono among a select group of scholars whose work has significantly shaped the field. 

In announcing the award, the RSA selection committee cited Ono's "remarkable impression on the field of rhetorical studies" and highlighted his influential scholarship, longstanding commitment to mentorship, and extensive service to the discipline. Over the course of his career, Ono has helped redefine the scope and possibilities of rhetorical inquiry. His scholarship has brought together critical perspectives from media studies, immigration and border rhetorics, Asian American studies, and the study of race and nationalism. 

Among his most influential works are the widely cited article "The Critique of Vernacular Discourse" and the book Shifting Borders: Rhetoric, Immigration, and California's Proposition 187. The committee noted that these and other contributions demonstrate "a career-long commitment to rethinking the boundaries and obligations of rhetorical inquiry."

Beyond his scholarly accomplishments, the committee emphasized Ono's profound impact as a mentor. Former students and colleagues described his intellectual generosity, encouragement, curiosity, and care—qualities that have helped shape the careers of numerous scholars across the field. 

The award also recognizes Ono's extensive professional leadership and service. In addition to serving on multiple committees within the Rhetoric Society of America, he has contributed to numerous editorial boards and held major leadership positions in the National Communication Association, including serving as its president. 

"I am deeply honored by this recognition from the Rhetoric Society of America," Ono said. "Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to learn from extraordinary colleagues, students, and mentors. This honor reflects the collective intellectual communities that have inspired and sustained my work." 

Ono was formally recognized during the Presidential Session and Awards Ceremony at the 2026 Rhetoric Society of America Conference in Portland, Oregon. The College of Humanities congratulates Professor Ono on this distinguished achievement and celebrates his enduring contributions to rhetorical studies, critical scholarship, mentorship, and academic leadership.