Media Arts Production Named Advisory Committee of the Year

Press Release                                                                                                                        
Date: August 14, 2025
Contact: lgarrett@tctc.edu

Media Arts Production Named Advisory Committee of the Year

PENDLETON – Tri-County Technical College’s Media Arts Production (MAP) advisory committee was recognized today (August 14) as the Advisory Committee of the Year in honor of its exemplary collaboration with faculty to ensure the program’s curriculum remains both competitive and aligned with industry standards.     

Advisory committee members joined Program Directors Amy Roberts and Stacey Schiff in accepting the plaque at the College’s fall convocation. The committee also received the award in 2014.

Since its existence, the program has relied on the advice and guidance of committee members, most of whom are working media professionals, for major decisions on curriculum, equipment and policy.

The committee collaborated with faculty to assess program strengths, identify outdated practices or tools, and recommend additions based on current and emerging industry trends. “Their insights have been instrumental in shaping a relevant and competitive curriculum,” said Schiff.

Since 2012 the department has hosted Media Mash-Up, a media festival and exhibition of student projects including audio, video editing, animation and photography. Student entries are judged by advisory committee members and community leaders who often are looking for potential hires.

“Committee members actively participated in this annual event by reviewing student work, providing valuable feedback, and attending the awards show to engage with and encourage students. Their presence and support made a lasting impact on student confidence and growth,” said Schiff.

Members also played a key role in the department’s Portfolio Showcase where they offered critiques, shared industry expectations, and guided students on how to improve their portfolios to meet professional standards, said Schiff.

The committee also worked directly with the senior class by serving as panelists to prepare them for job interviews. “They asked professional-level questions, provided constructive feedback, and offered assessments to help students refine their presentation and interviewing skills,” said Schiff.

“The advisory committee exceeded our expectations this year by demonstrating an exceptional level of commitment and support. They were enthusiastic and willing to assist with new initiatives and take time from their busy schedules to participate in various events. This year, students benefited greatly from multiple opportunities to engage with advisory board members and gain insight into real-world industry experiences,” said Schiff.

The College’s MAP program remains one of the few two-year broadcasting/media production programs in the nation.

About Tri-County Technical College

Tri-County Technical College, a public two-year community and technical college serving Anderson, Oconee and Pickens Counties in South Carolina, enrolls more than 9,000 students annually and offers more than 70 major fields of study, including computer technology, industrial electronics, mechatronics, nursing, and university transfer programs. Tri-County boasts the highest student success rate among two-year colleges in the state and ranks in the top one percent nationally for successful student transfers to four-year colleges and universities. To learn more, visit tctc.edu.               

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