Media Academy Addresses Cutting-Edge Issues in Media Industry, Practice

The Webster University School of Communications concluded its 5th annual Media Academy on March 24-25. The annual Media Academy is a premier event of the School of Communications, co-produced with SmithGeiger and other industry partners. 

Two days of engaging workshops on cutting-edge issues in media industries and communication practice, followed by a curated student showcase presenting some of the best work from some of our most accomplished students. School of Communications faculty hosted each workshop, which was led by an industry professional.

Eric Rothenbuhler, dean of the School of Communications spoke to the quality of workshops provided: “We are so grateful for our friends and partners in the communication professions who bring their expertise for engaging workshops on cutting edge issues, a different set of topics, every year," he said. "This year we had workshops on the relationship of data and design, preparing for post-Covid media and work, regulating social media, designing vaccine information campaigns, new developments in immersive 3D, and leading change in media organizations."

Students, alumni, communication professionals, faculty and staff joined these virtual events, gaining insight from leading experts in the field, networking, and developing career boosting knowledge and skills. With over 300 attendees, this was the largest and most successful Media Academy yet.

"Though we all prefer in-person events, the video conference version of Media Academy was a great success," Rothenbuhler said. "More of our alumni and friends in the industry were able to participate, and speakers, of course, were able to join from where they were with much less time and expense.

Student Showcase

The School of Communications Media Academy Student Showcase included 16 students with representation from all three academic departments. These students were selected by faculty and staff because of their stellar work and commitment to academic excellence. Industry partners and visiting media experts raved about the students as they reviewed their work, provided professional feedback and engaged in virtual networking.

Matt Russell, a 2016 Webster alumnus and senior manager of public relations at Centene, participated as a reviewer: “Very high quality, and impressive," he said. "I was blown away by the quality that these young professionals were capable of producing."

To see the complete list of events offered and student showcase projects, visit the School of Communications HUB (SOC HUB).