Sessions

[subject to change]

Opening Plenary: Innovation in Community Media

In a world where stories have the power to shape communities, community media professionals and content creators are the unsung heroes working tirelessly to amplify local voices and bring vital narratives to life. Join us as we explore the innovations reshaping community media today. Discover how we can push boundaries with new tools, technologies, and collaborative approaches to amplify local voices and connect communities like never before. This session will inspire and equip you with actionable strategies to drive change, reminding us when we unite in purpose, we truly are stronger together.

Local voices, powerful impact: Why Community Media Matters to Government and Schools

Community media is more than just a platform - it's a vital connection between local government, schools, and the communities they serve. In this discussion, hear directly from local government leaders and school officials about why community media is crucial to their work. Learn how it helps them reach, inform, and engage residents, foster transparency, support education, and build a sense of community.

From Idea to Airwaves: Launching a Podcast Training and Production Program at Your Community Media Center

Podcasts are a powerful way to tell stories, share information, and engage audiences—but how do you get a podcast training and production program off the ground at your community media center? This nuts-and-bolts workshop will walk you through everything you need to know to launch a successful program, from securing equipment and designing curriculum to recruiting participants and promoting finished podcasts. Learn practical tips on setting up your studio, training beginners to find their voice, and navigating the technical aspects of recording, editing, and distribution. Whether you’re starting from scratch or looking to enhance an existing program, this session will provide the tools, resources, and inspiration you need to empower your community to become the next generation of podcasters.

Funding the Future: Generating Income Beyond Cable Revenue for Community Media Centers

As traditional cable revenue declines, community media centers face the urgent challenge of finding new and sustainable income streams to support their operations. This workshop will dive into creative strategies and practical approaches for generating revenue beyond cable fees. Join us for a candid discussion on alternative funding models. Learn from peers who have successfully diversified their funding sources and explore ideas that can be adapted to your center’s unique needs. Walk away with actionable insights and fresh perspectives on how to secure your media center’s financial future and continue serving your community with impactful programming.

Game On! The Nuts and Bolts of Remote and Live Sports Production

Take your live and remote productions to the next level with this workshop on essential techniques for both sports and community event coverage. Learn the ins and outs of setting up mobile production trucks, remote camera operations, crew coordination, and cost-effective equipment and connectivity solutions. Perfect for community media centers, this session will equip you with the skills to deliver high-quality, engaging broadcasts from any location.

Beyond the Studio: Building Presence and Engagement in Your Community

Community media centers thrive when they are deeply connected to the communities they serve. This workshop will explore strategies for being present and actively engaging with your local community beyond the studio walls. Learn how to build relationships with local organizations, host community events, and create content that reflects and responds to the needs of your audience. We’ll discuss techniques for listening to your community, fostering trust, and ensuring diverse voices are represented in your programming. From social media outreach to face-to-face interactions, discover how to make your media center a visible, valued, and vibrant part of your community. Leave with actionable ideas to boost engagement, build partnerships, and strengthen your media center’s role as a cornerstone of local connection.

Tech Talk: Essential Tech Developments for Community Media Centers

Stay ahead of the curve with this essential workshop on the latest technology trends and developments impacting community media. From new streaming platforms and AI-driven content creation tools to advancements in video production, editing software, and studio automation, this session will cover the tech innovations you need to know to keep your media center current and competitive. Learn about the latest equipment upgrades, emerging digital tools, and future trends that can enhance your programming and streamline your operations. Whether you’re tech-savvy or just trying to keep up, this workshop will provide a clear roadmap of what’s next in community media technology and how you can adapt these advancements to better serve your community.

Launching Local News: Building a Community-Driven News Program with Local Content Creators

Creating a local news program is a powerful way for community media centers to keep residents informed and engaged. This workshop will guide you through the process of launching a news program that not only covers local stories but also empowers community content creators to take on the role of reporters. Learn how to structure your news program, recruit and train local contributors, and develop a workflow that supports collaboration between staff and community members. We'll cover everything from editorial planning and content curation to reporting standards and production logistics. Discover how to amplify diverse voices, tell hyperlocal stories, and make your news program a trusted resource for your community. Walk away with practical tips and a blueprint for creating a vibrant, community-powered local news initiative.

Demystifying AI: How the Heck Do I Use AI for My Community Media Center?

Artificial Intelligence isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a powerful tool that can revolutionize how community media centers operate and create content. This workshop breaks down the basics of AI and explores practical ways to integrate it into your workflows. From automating tasks like closed captioning and transcription to using AI for content recommendations, promotions, grants, and even generating graphics and scripts, we’ll cover the most accessible and impactful AI applications tailored for community media. You don’t need to be a tech expert to benefit; this session will provide straightforward, actionable insights to help you harness AI’s potential. Learn how AI can save you time, enhance your content, and help you better serve your community with smarter, more engaging media.

Nurturing Future Voices: Building and Growing a Youth Media Program at Your Community Media Center

Empowering the next generation of media creators starts with a strong youth media program. This workshop will guide you through the steps to establish and expand a successful youth media initiative at your community media center. Discover strategies for designing engaging programs that resonate with young people, from hands-on training in media production to fostering creativity and critical thinking. Learn how to recruit and retain youth participants, build partnerships with schools and community organizations, and create a supportive environment that encourages innovation and collaboration. We’ll also cover ways to provide mentorship, secure funding, and showcase youth-produced content. Walk away with practical tools and inspiration to cultivate a vibrant youth media program that inspires, educates, and amplifies young voices in your community.

Vendor Showcase: Discover the Latest Innovations for Community Media

Join us for an exciting vendor showcase where leading industry vendors will present their latest products and solutions tailored for community media centers. This dynamic session offers a unique opportunity to explore cutting-edge technology, tools, and services designed to enhance your media operations. Each vendor will provide a brief, engaging overview of their offerings, highlighting key features, benefits, and real-world applications. Whether you’re looking for new equipment, software solutions, or support services, this showcase will help you find the right resources to elevate your media center’s capabilities. Don’t miss this chance to connect with vendors and discover how the latest innovations can support your community media goals.

Crafting Change: Model State Legislation to Support Community Media

In the face of declining cable fees, securing state-level support for community media is more crucial than ever. This workshop will guide you through the process of developing, organizing, and advancing model state legislation designed to bolster community media funding and support. Learn how to draft effective legislation that addresses current challenges and promotes sustainable funding alternatives. We’ll cover strategies for building coalitions, engaging with policymakers, and mobilizing community advocates to champion your cause. Discover best practices for navigating the legislative process and crafting persuasive arguments to win support. This session will equip you with the knowledge and tools to influence policy, ensure continued funding, and secure a stronger future for community media in your state.

Building Futures: Offering Internships and Workforce Development Programs at Your Community Media Center

Investing in the next generation of media professionals starts with creating robust internship and workforce development programs. This workshop will provide you with practical strategies for establishing and expanding effective internship opportunities and workforce development initiatives at your community media center. Learn how to design impactful programs that offer real-world experience, foster skill development, and prepare participants for careers in media. We’ll cover best practices for recruiting and mentoring interns, building partnerships with educational institutions, and developing training curricula that align with industry needs. Discover how to create a supportive environment that encourages growth, enhances your center’s operations, and contributes to the broader media landscape. Walk away with actionable insights and a clear roadmap to build and sustain a successful internship and workforce development program.

Philo T. Farnsworth Media Festival Awards Ceremony

Celebrate excellence in community media at the Philo T. Farnsworth Media Festival Awards Ceremony! This prestigious event honors the innovative and impactful work produced by media creators across our network. Join us for an evening of recognition and inspiration as we showcase outstanding projects, highlight exceptional talent, and award those who have made significant contributions to the field. The ceremony will feature presentations of awards in various categories, reflecting the diversity and creativity of community media. Enjoy a memorable evening of celebration, networking, and reflection on the power of media to inform, inspire, and engage. Don’t miss this opportunity to recognize and applaud the extraordinary achievements of your peers and celebrate the vibrant world of community media.

SCHEDULE

*subject to change