College of Media, Arts, and Communication (CMAC)

From Classroom to Career: Your Ticket to Success.

You’re not here to wait for your future — you’re here to build it.

At Savannah State University’s College of Media, Arts and Communication, you’ll learn by doing through hands-on training, real-world projects, internships, performances, productions, and student-led media experiences that mirror the industries you want to enter.

Whether your passion is journalism, film, digital media, public relations, music, dance, theater, or the visual arts, CMAC connects your creativity to career opportunity.

You’ll graduate with more than a degree — you’ll leave with experience, a portfolio, professional connections, and the confidence to step straight into the job market and stand out from day one
About CMAC

Your future starts here — in a college built for creators, communicators, performers, and changemakers.

At Savannah State University’s College of Media, Arts and Communication (CMAC), you won’t just study your field — you’ll live it.

From hands-on training and real-world projects to internships, student-led media and PR experiences, performances, productions, and close faculty mentorship, CMAC gives students the skills, confidence, portfolio, and professional connections to stand out in today’s creative and communication industries. This is where passion turns into preparation — and preparation turns into opportunity.

CMAC is home to two academic divisions: Journalism and Mass Communications and Arts and Creative Leadership.

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Department of Journalism and Mass Communications

If you want a future in media, storytelling, digital content, public relations, or brand communication, this is where you start building it now.

Savannah State’s Department of Journalism and Mass Communications is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications. It is one of only three accredited programs in Georgia and the only HBCU in the state with this distinction — giving students a powerful advantage as they prepare for competitive careers in the media and communication industries

JMC students prepare for careers as Multimedia Journalists, Video Producers/Editors, Social Media Managers, Public Relations Specialists,Film Makers,  and Digital Content Creators through industry-connected learning that includes hands-on media production, real-world campaigns, internships, student media, portfolio-building experiences, and access to professional-level facilities. Our students do more than graduate with a degree — they graduate with experience employers can see.

And the best part? CMAC students are building the kind of résumés, portfolios, and professional presence that help them move from college to career with confidence.

Department of Arts and Creative Leadership

Turn your creativity into a career. Savannah State University’s Department of Arts and Creative Leadership is designed for students who want to lead, create, and make an impact through the arts. Here, students build real-world skills for careers in arts and music education, creative programming, community and cultural organizations, performance venues, city and county initiatives, and the growing creative economy — while still exploring their passion for music, dance, theater, visual art, and graphic design.

Through hands-on learning, collaborative projects, performances, leadership development, and applied creative work, students learn how to turn artistic talent into professional opportunity. It’s a program built for students who want to keep their creativity at the center of their future while preparing for careers that are relevant, meaningful, and in demand.

The CMAC Difference

No matter which path you choose, CMAC is committed to making sure you graduate with more than a diploma.

You graduate with the CMAC 6: a polished professional résumé, a strong LinkedIn and social media presence, a portfolio filled with real-world work, three industry certifications, a professional headshot, and AI knowledge in your field that helps you stand out in a competitive job market.

Whether you see yourself on stage, behind the camera, in the newsroom, in the classroom, designing visual content, or leading in creative industries and community spaces, CMAC prepares you to graduate ready to launch your career with confidence.
About The Dean

Meet the Dean of the College of Media, Arts, and Communication

Your future deserves a dean who is all in — and at CMAC, that is exactly what you get.

Dr. David Marshall, APR is more than the dean of Savannah State University’s College of Media, Arts and Communication — he is a teacher, mentor, storyteller, and passionate advocate for student success. He believes college should prepare students not only to earn a degree, but to build confidence, create meaningful work, and step boldly into their careers.

That is why Dr. Marshall stays connected to students in real and visible ways. He teaches classes to get to know students better, understand their goals, and stay engaged in the learning experience firsthand. He is also an active social media storyteller on campus, showing students what it looks like to communicate with purpose, connect with audiences, and build a strong professional presence in today’s digital world.

At CMAC, leadership is not distant. Dr. Marshall’s open-door policy means students can stop by, share exciting news, ask for guidance, or simply have a conversation. That kind of personal connection matters — especially for students who want to feel seen, supported, and encouraged as they grow.

For prospective students, that means joining a college where the dean is not just leading from an office, but showing up in classrooms, on campus, and in students’ lives. It means becoming part of a community where leadership is accessible, creativity is celebrated, and career success is always the goal.

Under Dr. Marshall’s leadership, CMAC is helping students turn their talents into real opportunities in media, communication, arts, and creative leadership. If you want a college where your dean knows the value of relationships, believes in hands-on learning, and wants to see you win, CMAC is the place to start.

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CMAC Points of Pride

Nationally Accredited Mass Communications Program

State University’s Department of Journalism and Mass Communications is nationally accredited by the Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications signifying the strength of JMC's hands-on learning, student success, and career-ready approach. SSU is one of only three accredited programs in Georgia, and the only HBCU in the state with this distinction.

CMAC Points of Pride

State of The Art Facililites

More infortate-of-the-art classrooms and industry-standard labs give CMAC students the tools to create, produce, and lead at a professional level. From our fully functional television production studio, control room, podcasting studio, student media center, and advanced digital labs to a $1.2 million upgrade that is elevating our broadcast and podcasting spaces, CMAC is built to give students hands-on experience in the same kind of environments they will enter after graduation.
CMAC Points of Pride

CMAC Students Take The Main Stage!

At CMAC, students do not wait until graduation to start building their future. In just one academic year, students stepped into 84 performance and production opportunities across band, theater, dance, art shows, newscasts, and podcasts — gaining the visibility, confidence, portfolio pieces, and professional experience that help turn talent into career momentum.
Community

Student Organizations

From literary clubs to performing arts groups, these organizations foster collaboration, creativity, and a sense of belonging while enhancing the overall academic experience.
View Student Organizations
Scholarships

Scholarships & Grants

These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, encourage creativity, and provide financial assistance to help students achieve their educational goals.
Find A Scholarship
CMAC By The Numbers

A Community of Creators & Innovators

Explore the numbers that reflect the creativity, growth, and impact of the Savannah State University College of Media, Arts, and Communication. From emerging student storytellers and artists to dedicated faculty mentors and accomplished alumni, these figures represent a community driven by creativity, innovation, expression, and preparing Tigers to make their mark across industries and audiences around the world.
238

Enrolled Students

13

Full-Time Faculty and Staff

525

Alumni

Alumni Spotlight

Daryl Green, Journalism and Mass Communications, Class of 2025

Daryl Green was born and raised in Walterboro, South Carolina, and is a May 2025 graduate of Savannah State University, where he earned his degree in Mass Communications.

Currently he is a reporter WAAY-TV (channel 31), a Gray Media station  in Huntsville, Alabama.

His passion for storytelling began in at Savannah State after transitioning from athletics to journalism, where he discovered a drive to inform and connect with communities.

At Savannah State, Daryl served as executive producer of the student-run newscast, WTRT-News, gaining hands-on experience on both sides of the camera. His work also earned national recognition with a nomination at the 45th Sports Emmy Awards for his documentary, “The Walk-On.”

Daryl later moved to Oregon to become a reporter at KDRV, where he covered local stories and continued developing his on-air presence.

Now at WAAY 31, he looks forward to serving the North Alabama community and building connections through impactful storytelling.

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Student Involvement

Where Creative Leaders Thrive

Student involvement is an important part of the Savannah State University College of Media, Arts, and Communication experience. Through student organizations, honor societies, creative collaborations, media productions, and leadership opportunities, students have the chance to build connections, sharpen their craft, and engage with a community of artists, storytellers, communicators, and creators both inside and outside the classroom.
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Mass Communication Student Association

If you’re the kind of person who always has ideas, loves media, and wants to be part of the action, MCSA is your space. The Mass Communications Student Association at Savannah State is where future journalists, content creators, storytellers, and media pros connect, collaborate, and start building their brand. It’s more than a student organization — it’s where you find your people, sharpen your skills, get inspired, and start turning your passion into real opportunities.

Through MCSA, students get involved, step into leadership, grow their confidence, and gain hands-on experience that supports internships, portfolio-building, and career success in media and communication. If you’re ready to create, lead, and make your mark, MCSA is a great place to start.
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Players by the Sea

If the stage feels like home, Players by the Sea is where you belong. Savannah State’s official theater group gives students the chance to perform, create, collaborate, and bring stories to life through real productions and artistic experiences. It’s a space for students who love acting, performance, and creativity to build confidence, sharpen their craft, and get hands-on experience that can grow into serious stage presence, leadership skills, and career-ready talent.
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Tiger's Roar TV

Want to be on camera, behind the scenes, or calling the shots in the studio? Tiger’s Roar TV is where Savannah State students stop watching media and start making it. As part of SSU’s student-run television experience, students get hands-on practice in broadcasting, storytelling, video production, and live-style studio work using real equipment and professional-level spaces. It’s creative, fast-paced, and perfect for students who want to build skills, create standout content, and get career-ready while still in college.
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The Art Club

Got ideas, creativity, and a love for visual art? SSU Art Club is your space to create, connect, and get inspired. The club brings together students who want to grow as artists, collaborate on projects, get involved in the community, and keep their creativity flowing outside the classroom. Whether you’re into drawing, design, painting, or just being around other creative people, Art Club helps you build your skills, expand your network, and turn your passion into something bigger.

The Powerhouse of the South: Savannah State University's Band

The Powerhouse of the South is the most visible of the SSU Bands, providing the color and excitement of Tiger Athletics and enrichment of university life.
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College Events

The CMAC Experience

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Kappa Tau Alpha Induction

Kappa Tau Alpha is for the standouts. The high achievers. The students who are not just showing up, but showing out. As the national honor society for journalism and mass communication, KTA recognizes academic excellence in the field — and every year at Savannah State, top students in the junior class are inducted into this prestigious organization. It’s a big deal, a major flex, and proof that your hard work is getting noticed.
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Senior Capstones

Senior Capstone is the moment where all the hard work gets real. Before graduating, every Mass Communications and Arts student must present a polished final portfolio to CMAC faculty and an outside panel of industry professionals — and earn a minimum passing score to cross the finish line. It’s more than a graduation requirement; it’s the ultimate show-your-work moment, where students prove they are not just talented, but truly ready for careers, the creative industry, and the real world.
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In The Spotlight

At CMAC, you’re not staying behind the scenes for long. Throughout the year, students take part in nearly 90 performances, exhibitions, showcases, newscasts, podcasts, and film screenings — not just on campus, but across the Savannah region. That means real chances to be seen, heard, and celebrated while building experience in front of live audiences and in professional spaces. At CMAC, the spotlight is part of the student experience — if you’re here, you’re creating, performing, presenting, and making your mark.

University Events

Looking for additional events across campus? Explore the full university events calendar below!
https://savannahstate.edu/events/
Leadership & Industry Insight

CMAC Advisory Board Members

When you join the College of Media, Arts, and Communication at Savannah State University, you learn in a program shaped by accomplished professionals and top leaders in the field. CMAC’s Advisory Board helps keep our programs connected to industry trends, career opportunities, and the skills employers want most—so students graduate ready to turn their passion into powerful careers.

Kim Achenbach

District Performing Arts Specialist, Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools
Kim Achenbach supports music, dance, and theatre education across the district while helping connect students to meaningful arts experiences. Her work brings together creativity, instruction, and community engagement in ways that strengthen arts education for the next generation.

Kendra Brown

Education Director, Savannah Children’s Theatre
Kendra Brown creates theatre experiences that help young people build confidence, creativity, and performance skills. Her leadership reflects the power of the arts to inspire growth, storytelling, and self-expression.o

Susan Catron

Managing Editor, The Current
Susan Catron is an experienced media leader with a strong background in newsroom leadership and local journalism. She brings deep insight into reporting, editing, and the evolving role of news organizations in serving communities.

Chris Corinthian

Founder and CEO, FinLit University
Chris Corinthian is an entrepreneur and educator focused on helping students make smarter financial decisions and build stronger futures. His work connects communication, leadership, and real-world knowledge that empowers the next generation.

Rodney Creech

Executive Director, Savannah Performing Arts Collective
Rodney Creech leads artistic and cultural initiatives that create opportunities for performance, collaboration, and community connection. His work highlights the impact of the arts as a force for expression, visibility, and engagement.

Harry DeLorme

Director of Education and Senior Curator, Telfair Museums
Harry DeLorme brings a strong background in museum education, curation, and public engagement. His leadership helps connect audiences to art through thoughtful interpretation, programming, and educational experiences.

Kim DuBois

President, Friends of African American Arts, Telfair Museums
Kim DuBois is a passionate advocate for the visibility and celebration of African American arts and culture. Her work helps strengthen community connections while promoting greater access to important artistic voices and stories.

Jennifer Gaines

Educator, Audio/Video, Technology, and Film
Jennifer Gaines brings hands-on experience in media, technology, and film education to the advisory board. Her work helps students connect creative skills with practical tools used in today’s communication and production industries.

Jeffery Glover

Creative Services Producer, Savannah State University
Jeffery Glover is a visual storyteller and media professional with experience in creative production and digital content. His background helps students see how strong storytelling and technical skills translate into real career opportunities.

John Grace

Film Department Head and Instructor, Savannah Technical College
John Grace brings industry knowledge and classroom experience in film production and workforce training. His perspective helps students understand the professional standards, technical skills, and creative discipline needed in the film industry.

Connor Hackling

News Director, WSAV-TV
Connor Hackling leads one of the region’s television news operations and understands what it takes to succeed in today’s fast-moving media landscape. His professional insight helps connect classroom preparation to the realities of newsroom leadership and multimedia storytelling.

Ben Hart

President and General Manager, WJCL 22
Ben Hart is a veteran broadcast leader with extensive experience in television management and media operations. His expertise provides students with a valuable perspective on leadership, innovation, and the future of local broadcasting.

Mario Incorvaia

Chief Operating Officer, Hilton Head Symphony Orchestra
Mario Incorvaia helps lead the operational and strategic work of a major regional arts organization. His experience shows students how strong leadership and creative vision work together to support successful arts institutions.

Lisa Jackson

Education and Community Outreach, Savannah African Art Museum
Lisa Jackson develops programs that connect audiences to African art, history, and cultural understanding. Her work demonstrates how education and outreach can expand the impact of arts organizations in meaningful ways.

Rudy King

Savannah State University Alumna
Rudy King represents the power of alumni engagement and creative leadership beyond graduation. Her presence on the board reflects the value of staying connected to the university while supporting future generations of students.

Wanda Lloyd

Author, Speaker, and Retired Newspaper Editor
Wanda Lloyd is an accomplished journalist and media leader whose career has included influential roles in news and public communication. She brings a wealth of experience in storytelling, leadership, and mentoring the next generation of media professionals.

J’Aaron Merchant

Co-Founder, Black Paper Party
J’Aaron Merchant is a creative entrepreneur whose work blends illustration, design, and cultural storytelling. His success shows students how artistic talent can grow into innovative branding, product development, and business leadership.

Stuart Miller

Director of Cultural Affairs, City of Savannah
Stuart Miller leads efforts that support public art, cultural planning, and creative placemaking across the city. His work highlights how the arts can shape community identity, civic life, and regional growth.

Tempa Nyswaner

District Visual Arts Specialist K-12, Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools
Tempa Nyswaner supports visual arts education across grade levels and helps strengthen opportunities for student creativity in the classroom. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to arts learning, teacher support, and artistic development.

Michael Oder

News Director, WTOC
Michael Oder oversees local television news coverage and brings valuable insight into journalism, newsroom leadership, and community storytelling. His experience helps students understand the standards and expectations of professional media careers.

Julio Saldarriaga

Instructor and Savannah Hub Lead, Georgia Film Academy
Julio Saldarriaga is an Emmy-winning filmmaker and educator with a strong background in film production and industry training. His work helps students connect their creative ambitions to hands-on skills and opportunities in the growing film and entertainment industry.

Kimberly Starks

Founder and Principal Consultant, Blue Scorpion Reputation Management
Kimberly Starks is a communications strategist with experience in public relations, reputation management, and digital engagement. Her career shows students how strong messaging, branding, and strategic communication can open doors across industries.

Marjorie Young

Founder and CEO, Carriage Trade Public Relations
Marjorie Young is an award-winning public relations leader known for helping organizations build strong brands and meaningful visibility. Her experience gives students a powerful example of how strategic communication can drive influence, growth, and success.
Meet Our Faculty and Staff

Faculty and Staff Information

At Savannah State University’s College of Media, Arts, and Communication, our faculty and staff more than professors and employyes— they are mentors, creators, industry professionals, and leaders who help students turn talent into opportunity. Whether your future is on stage, on screen, behind the camera, in the newsroom, in the studio, or leading creative projects, CMAC faculty and staff help you build real skills, grow your confidence, and get ready for the career you want after graduation.
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Dr. Gabriel Arnold

Assistant Professor and Director of University Bands
In Arts and Creative Leadership, Dr. Gabriel Arnold leads Savannah State’s University Bands program and helps students grow as musicians, performers, and leaders. He brings years of experience in music education and band leadership, giving students the discipline, confidence, and performance skills to stand out on the field, on stage, and beyond.
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Dr. Serajul I. Bhuiyan

Professor
In Journalism and Mass Communications, Dr. Serajul I. Bhuiyan brings decades of teaching, research, and leadership experience to the classroom. His global perspective and deep knowledge of communication, technology, and teaching help students think bigger, communicate smarter, and prepare for success in a fast-changing media world.
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Mr. Jeffery Glover

Program Director, Mass Communication
In Journalism and Mass Communications, Jeffery Glover helps guide students through a program built on creativity, storytelling, and career preparation. His leadership supports students as they develop the skills, experience, and professional mindset needed to succeed in media and communication careers.
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Prof. Tomica S. Jenkins

Faculty, Arts and Creative Leadership
In Arts and Creative Leadership, Tomica Jenkins helps students bring stories to life through theatre, performance, and hands-on creative work. With professional experience in both stage and screen production, she helps students build confidence, sharpen their craft, and develop the collaborative skills that matter in the performing arts and entertainment world.
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Prof. Eric Jones

Assistant Professor of Music Performance
In Arts and Creative Leadership, Eric Jones brings the energy of a working musician, composer, and educator into the classroom. His background in performance, composition, and media helps students strengthen their artistry while seeing how musical talent can grow into real opportunities in performance, production, and the broader creative industry.
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Dr. David Marshall, APR

Dean and Professor
In Journalism and Mass Communications and as dean of the College of Media, Arts, and Communication, Dr. David Marshall brings leadership, vision, and real industry experience to CMAC. As a former television news anchor and reporter, he understands what it takes to succeed in the field and is committed to helping students graduate with the skills, confidence, and professional edge to compete for standout careers.
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Mr. Kareem McMichael

Online Content Manager, Tiger’s Roar
In Journalism and Mass Communications, Kareem McMichael helps bring student storytelling and digital content to life through Tiger’s Roar. His work gives students valuable exposure to real-world media production while helping them build the kind of hands-on experience that strengthens portfolios and prepares them for the fast-moving world of content creation.
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Prof. William Martin IV

Lecturer
In Journalism and Mass Communications, William Martin IV brings award-winning experience in documentary filmmaking, television production, and multimedia storytelling to the classroom. He helps students level up their technical and creative skills while preparing them for careers in broadcast, video production, and digital media.
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Prof. Rachael Shaner

Lecturer
In Journalism and Mass Communications, Rachael Shaner brings a fresh, interdisciplinary perspective through her background in strategic communication, journalism, music, and nonprofit leadership. Her experience shows students how storytelling, advocacy, and creativity can open doors across media, public service, and mission-driven careers.
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Prof. Nicholas Silberg

Professor and Chair
In Arts and Creative Leadership, Nicholas Silberg helps shape a learning environment where students can grow as artists, thinkers, and future professionals. As chair and professor, he supports creative exploration, strong artistic practice, and interdisciplinary learning that helps students prepare for life in the arts and creative industries.
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Prof. Aubrey Simmons

Lecturer and Assistant Director of University Bands
In Arts and Creative Leadership, Aubrey Simmons helps student musicians grow through performance, rehearsal, and ensemble development. His work supports the excellence, discipline, and school pride that define Savannah State’s band tradition while helping students strengthen the skills and confidence they need to perform at a high level.
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Dr. Juliana Maria D. S. Trammel

Professor and Chair
In Journalism and Mass Communications, Dr. Juliana Trammel brings award-winning scholarship and academic leadership to the classroom. Her expertise in communication, new media, race, and curriculum development helps students become stronger critical thinkers, sharper communicators, and more thoughtful leaders in today’s global media landscape.
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Tamara Waterman

Coordinator of Administrative Services, CMAC
Tamara Waterman helps keep the College of Media, Arts, and Communication running smoothly by supporting the day-to-day operations that serve students, faculty, and staff. Her work helps create an organized, welcoming, and student-focused environment where creativity and academic success can thrive.

ACEJMC Accredited College of Media, Arts, and Communication

Savannah State University's College of Media, Arts, and Communication has degree programs accredited by ACEJMC - Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications. SSU is one of only three accredited programs in Georgia, and the only HBCU in the state with this distinction.
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Support the next generation of creatives, communicators, and innovators at the Savannah State University College of Media, Arts, and Communication. Your gift helps create opportunities for student success through scholarships, academic programs, creative experiences, and hands-on learning that prepares Tigers to make an impact across media, arts, and communication industries long after graduation.
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