New Advisory Board to Mentor Digital Media Students

Making industry connections is critical to student success. That’s just one of the reasons Alan Buck, director of Meredith’s Digital Media Certificate program, recently recruited a team of professionals to serve as an Advisory Board for digital media students.

“Every year, these members will be available to each student in the program to offer critiques on reels, give resume advice, and answer other general questions they might have,” said Buck.

The board represents sectors across the media industry. Current advisory board members are as follows:

• Julie Fries, Group News Director, Sinclair Broadcasting
• Courtney Duncil, Esq., Discovery Counsel, Moore and Van Allen
• Bervette Carree, Vice President of News, ABC 11/WTVD
• Adam Owens, Manager of Communications, NC Education Lottery
• Jeremy Spearman, Executive Producer, WRAL News

The Digital Media and Digital Communication Certificates introduce students to the creative techniques and technical skills expected in an increasingly digital workplace. The programs are designed for established communications professionals and those just starting their careers.

The Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Digital Communication is an interdisciplinary program with 16 semester hours of coursework, while the Digital Media Certificate comprises 25 hours.

Both programs are flexible, allowing participants to pursue their studies at the pace that works best for them. Two certificate options, varied electives, and financial assistance allow students to focus their studies on their particular areas of interest in the timeframe and financial format that makes sense for their careers. 

Students can choose from electives in writing, photography, social media, web design, marketing, PR, data analysis, and more. Students learn in cutting-edge facilities in the Communication and Health, Exercise & Sport Sciences building (CHESS), which features collaborative learning spaces, a state-of-the-art television studio and control room, and a podcast production suite.

Lauren Phillips, director of marketing and communications for the Greenville-Pitt County Chamber of Commerce, completed the certificate program in 2021.

“The Digital Communication Certificate helped me foster artistic, creative, and technological growth,” said Phillips. “I was pushed to think outside the box, which has enhanced my marketing skills for my career.”

Learn more about Meredith’s Digital Media Certificates