SCMA Speaker Series Connects Students with Media Pros

Students gain firsthand insight into journalism, digital storytelling, public relations and brand strategy through industry-led sessions this spring

Key Highlights

• The SCMA hosted its Guest Speaker Series in the Frank & Marisa Martire Center for the Liberal Arts, bringing media professionals from major organizations
• Speakers shared real-world insight into journalism, digital storytelling, social media verification, public relations strategy and integrated creative campaign development
• The series highlighted the importance of adaptability, creativity and credibility in a rapidly evolving media landscape while connecting students directly with industry professionals

The Sacred Heart University School of Communication, Media & the Arts (SCMA) recently brought industry leaders to campus through its SCMA Guest Speaker Series, offering students a firsthand look at careers shaping today’s media landscape.

Hosted in the Frank & Marisa Martire Center for the Liberal Arts, the series welcomed professionals from major organizations, including CNN, the Associated Press, NBC Connecticut, Razorfish and Prosek Partners. Across multiple sessions, students explored topics ranging from digital storytelling and social media verification to public relations strategy and creative campaign development.

Speakers such as Briceyda Landaverde of NBC Connecticut, and Nicole Azevedo and Tommy Walters, producers from CNN, provided insight into the evolving nature of news production across streaming and broadcast platforms.

Walters also stressed the importance of building professional portfolios early in one’s academic career. “The biggest thing students can do is start building a portfolio now—everything you produce, from class assignments to personal projects, can become part of how you present yourself to future employers,” said Walters.

On the creative side, Dan Bennis from Penta Group and Cindy Jackson from milk* shared how brand storytelling and visual design come to life through integrated campaigns.

Alum Justin Lear ’01, a senior director of social media newsgathering at CNN, highlighted the fast-paced work of verifying breaking news in the digital age, and he reflected on his time as a student at Sacred Heart. He noted how much SHU has evolved over the years, including the expanded facilities, technology and hands-on learning opportunities—key advantages for today’s students.

“Make the most out of your experience here. Take advantage of all the resources SHU provides, build connections and get real-world experience early,” said Lear.

Public relations and global media perspectives were also central to the series. Marisa Gregory, an account supervisor at Prosek Partners, discussed building strategic client relationships and navigating media outreach, while Ricardo Zuniga, director of global beats at the Associated Press, offered a broad look at managing international coverage across multiple content areas.

The sessions emphasized the importance of adaptability, creativity and credibility in a rapidly evolving media environment, which were key takeaways for students preparing to enter the industry.

“Since attending, I’ve been able to connect with multiple speakers, ask questions about their career paths and gain insight that has already helped me in my job search and understanding of the industry,” said Chumani Heard, an SCMA graduate student in the journalism & media production program.

The series was organized by Taciane Batista, director of the journalism & media production graduate program, to bridge classroom learning with real-world experience, giving students direct access to professionals actively shaping the field.

“Bringing industry professionals into the classroom allows students to see how their coursework translates directly into real careers in media, communications and advertising,” Batista said. “Our goal is to provide meaningful exposure, networking opportunities and a clearer understanding of the evolving media landscape.”

Pictured: Tommy Walters, Producer, CNN