Dr. Lando C. Tosaya

About

I am a multidisciplinary scholar and educator in the Department of Creative Arts, Literature, and Communication, specializing in the intersections of race, interpersonal communication, identity formation, gender studies, media analysis, and popular culture fandoms. Holding a Ph.D. from the University of Washington, my research critically examines Black femme cosplay through Black feminist theory, intersectional feminisms, and critical theory. My dissertation, Black Femme Cosplay: Navigating Identity, Creativity, and Cultural Representation in Fandom Space, explores how Black women cosplayers navigate identity, cultural aesthetics, and artistic expression within contemporary cosplay communities. 
My academic background includes an M.A. in Interdisciplinary Studies from California State University, Los Angeles, focusing on gender and race in science fiction and Afrofuturism, as well as an M.A. in Communication from the University of Washington, where my thesis analyzed digital misogynoir and its exploitation of stereotypes in North American media. 

I teach Communication Studies with a focus on active learning, critical thinking, and inclusive pedagogy. My aim as an educator is to create a student-centered environment where learners from diverse backgrounds can engage meaningfully with contemporary communication issues, especially those related to media, public relations, and social advocacy. To bridge theory and practice, I incorporate experiential learning strategies such as case studies, media analysis, real-world applications, and collaborative projects. These approaches help students build practical communication skills while deepening their theoretical understanding. My commitment to diversity and inclusion informs every aspect of my teaching. I intentionally design courses that encourage critical examination of power, identity, and representation, fostering a classroom culture that uplifts multiple perspectives and amplifies marginalized voices. Above all, I encourage students to embrace their authentic selves and understand that identity is rooted in internal reflection before it becomes visible in the world. I strive to cultivate a learning space that values self-awareness, personal growth, and confidence. These are key elements in both academic success and meaningful professional development.

Outside of the classroom, you can find me bringing characters to life through cosplay, cruising on roller skates, dancing on my longboard, vibing at music festivals, and getting my hands dirty in the garden. Whether I'm creating a costume, skating through the city, or tending to my plants, I’m all about creativity, movement, and a little bit of joy in every season.

– Dr. Lando C. Tosaya (she/they)

Publications:
Tosaya, L.C. & Joseph, R.L. (2020). A Look into Digital Blackface, Culture Vultures, and How to Read Racism Like Black Critical Audiences. FLOW Journal.
Tosaya, L.C. (2017). Gender Race and Science Fiction. International Journal of Multidisciplinary Thought.

Published Book Chapters:  
Tosaya, L.C. (2025). The Ultimatum of Inclusion: Examining LGBTQ+ Representation in Reality Television. Gobel, D. & P. Booth (Ed.), Reading Reality TV. 
Tosaya, L.C. (2024). The Star Wars Universe: Envisioning a Speculative Societal Model Through the Afrofuturistic Lens.  Grau, S. & P. Booth (Ed.), A Celebration of Star Wars. 
Tosaya, L.C., Irwin, L. & Ralina L. Joseph. (2024) Weaving a Web Together: How to Create Accountability and Support Structures for Graduate Students. Preparing Publicly Engaged Scholars: A Guide for Innovation in Doctoral Education.

Class Schedule