“Let’s go exploring.”
An avid reader of Calvin and Hobbes growing up, I often displayed an aptitude for mischief and adventure. This – matched with my affinity for artistic expression – led to my studies at Central Michigan University’s School of Broadcast and Cinematic Arts (BCA), where I ultimately earned a Masters in Electronic Media Production.
While pursuing my degree, I explored the diverse world of multimedia production, both in practice and through instruction: I cut my teeth on several segments and shorts for BCA’s MHTV, before producing an award-winning travel show à la Anthony Bourdain’s No Reservations; for my MA thesis project, I produced a feature-length film and accompanying documentary; and as a graduate assistant, I taught video production. After completing my MA, I collaborated with faculty and staff to produce online course content and on-demand, video resources.
From there, I joined the team at Independence Television, highlighting events, organizations, and people of interest in Clarkston and Independence Township; I acted as a writer, director, producer, cinematographer, editor, and on-screen talent. I also helped instruct students active in the district's video productions program.
After roughly three years, I accepted a Digital Content Manager position at Michigan State University. While in that role, I managed strategic marketing and branding initiatives for the department of Residence Education and Housing Services. Prior to working at MSU, I moved to Fenton; so when the opportunity arose to teach video production courses at Fenton High, I accepted my current position.
It is my goal to take Fenton High’s video program to new heights, and to help my students find success in today’s ever-changing, ever-challenging world, no matter what path they choose. In addition to teaching, I stay active with freelance and passion projects.
Everyone has a story, I want to help you tell yours. Let's go exploring.
Awards
2020 Vegas Movie Awards
Award of Excellence — Best of the Month
"Making Time"
(with Writer/Director/Producer Grant Pichla)
Award of Excellence — Best of the Month
"Making Time"
(with Writer/Director/Producer Grant Pichla)
2019 Philo T. Farnsworth Award
Excellence Award — Best Series Program
"Jack, Vol. 2 The Discovery"
(with Matt Bleau and Stephan Merk)
Excellence Award — Best Series Program
"Jack, Vol. 2 The Discovery"
(with Matt Bleau and Stephan Merk)
2019 Philo T. Farnsworth Award
For Sports Entertainment programming
"Farewell, Fife"
For Sports Entertainment programming
"Farewell, Fife"
2019 Philo T. Farnsworth Award
For Health programming
"Water is Worth It EP4: Wellhead Protection Program Overview"
For Health programming
"Water is Worth It EP4: Wellhead Protection Program Overview"
2019 Philo T. Farnsworth Award
For Empowerment/Inspirational programming
"Student Memorial Walkout 2018"
(with Stephan Merk)
For Empowerment/Inspirational programming
"Student Memorial Walkout 2018"
(with Stephan Merk)
2018 Philo T. Farnsworth Award
For Sports Coverage programming
"Battle at the Big House II"
For Sports Coverage programming
"Battle at the Big House II"
2018 Philo T. Farnsworth Award Finalist
For Comedy/Humor programming
"Head 2 Head: ITV Edition EP1"
(with Matt Bleau and Stephan Merk)
For Comedy/Humor programming
"Head 2 Head: ITV Edition EP1"
(with Matt Bleau and Stephan Merk)
2018 Philo T. Farnsworth Award
For Community Event programming
"Jack, Vol.1 A Library Case of Knowledge"
(with Matt Bleau and Stephan Merk)
For Community Event programming
"Jack, Vol.1 A Library Case of Knowledge"
(with Matt Bleau and Stephan Merk)
2018 Philo T. Farnsworth Award
For Health programming
"Water is Worth It, EP1: An Introduction"
For Health programming
"Water is Worth It, EP1: An Introduction"
2018 Philo T. Farnsworth Award
For Newscast programming
"Independence Update 11-7-17"
(with Stephan Merk)
For Newscast programming
"Independence Update 11-7-17"
(with Stephan Merk)
2018 Philo T. Farnsworth Award
For Promotional Video (3:00 or less) programming
"Community Producer Leanna Haun"
For Promotional Video (3:00 or less) programming
"Community Producer Leanna Haun"
2017 Philo T. Farnsworth Award
For excellence in community programming
"Davisburg Heritage Festival 2016"
(with Stephan Merk)
Hometown Media Award Winner
Best of Community Events - General Access Center (Professional)
"Davisburg Heritage Festival 2016"
(with Stephan Merk)
2017 StormTV Project Filmmaker Award
"Water is Worth It, An Independence Township Perspective
EP1: An Introduction"
The Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 President's Award
for Exceptional Contribution of Time, Talent and Leadership
For excellence in community programming
"Davisburg Heritage Festival 2016"
(with Stephan Merk)
Hometown Media Award Winner
Best of Community Events - General Access Center (Professional)
"Davisburg Heritage Festival 2016"
(with Stephan Merk)
2017 StormTV Project Filmmaker Award
"Water is Worth It, An Independence Township Perspective
EP1: An Introduction"
The Clarkston Area Chamber of Commerce 2017 President's Award
for Exceptional Contribution of Time, Talent and Leadership
2017 Bronze Telly Award for Music Video
"Whatnots"
(with Eric Limarenko)
"Whatnots"
(with Eric Limarenko)
2017 Communicator Award for Music Video
"Whatnots"
(with Eric Limarenko)
"Whatnots"
(with Eric Limarenko)
2013 Bronze Telly Award
"A New Mutant"
"A New Mutant"
2013 Silver Distinction Communicator Award
"A New Mutant"
"A New Mutant"