What is Communication & Fine Arts?
Communication is the imparting or exchanging of information or news. Fine Arts is聽creative art, especially visual art, whose products are to be appreciated primarily or solely for their imaginative, aesthetic, or intellectual content.
聽Burrell Hall
(256) 726-7533
聽(256) 726-7531
As a department driven by innovation, research, and a strong belief in professional development, we鈥檙e dedicated to shaping the future of our students.
The Department of Communication offers rigorous, theoretical, and cutting-edge programs designed to provide students with necessary skills needed to excel in today鈥檚 job market. Our academic and scholastic rigor positions the 51视频 University Department of Communication as a leader and noteworthy player in scholarship and education. Our students benefit from the state-of-the-art facilities and model professional faculty with outstanding academic and professional backgrounds.
Concentration Highlight: Film &Television Program
Discover Film & TV at 51视频 University
The 51视频 University Film & Television (FTV) program is where creativity meets purpose. Our students develop skills in directing, cinematography, editing, and storytelling鈥攑reparing them for careers in film, television, and digital media. Experience the passion, innovation, and impact of our program in the video below!
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Alumni and Current Student Work
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FTV 2022-2024 Awards
The 51视频 University Department of Communication鈥檚 Film and Television (FTV) program has received national and international recognition for its student films, documentaries, and broadcast projects. From 2022 to 2024, FTV students have won top awards at prestigious festivals, including the Lignum Vitae Film Festival, Sonscreen Film Festival, Black Focus Film Festival, HBCU First Look Film Festival, and Society of Adventist Communicators Conference. Notable films such as The Man Who Killed Jim Crow, The Question, Pics, and This Time, It鈥檚 Personal have been recognized for their storytelling, cinematography, direction, and post-production excellence. These achievements highlight the program鈥檚 dedication to developing emerging filmmakers and storytellers who make an impact in the industry.
FTV 2022-2024 Awards:
2022 Lignum Vitae Film Festival (LVFF) at Northern Caribbean University
- Best Documentary Film- 鈥淭he Man Who Killed Jim Crow鈥
- Best Picture- 鈥淭he Man Who Killed Jim Crow鈥
- Best Cinematography- 鈥淕eorges鈥 Watch鈥
- Best Script- 鈥淭he Man Who Killed Jim Crow鈥
- Best Overall Picture- 鈥淭he Man Who Killed Jim Crow鈥
- Best Overall Post-Production- 鈥淭he Man Who Killed Jim Crow鈥
- Best Producer- Fitzroy Powell for 鈥淭he Man Who Killed Jim Crow鈥
- Best Director- 鈥淭he Man Who Killed Jim Crow鈥
2022 Black Focus Film Festival at the University of Alabama in Birmingham
- Best Documentary Film- 鈥淭he Man Who Killed Jim Crow鈥
2023 HBCU Power Film Festival at Morehouse College in Atlanta
- Best Student Narrative- 鈥淭he Question鈥
2023 Black Focus Film Festival at the University of Alabama in Birmingham
- Best Picture- 鈥淭he Question鈥
- Audience Choice- 鈥淭he Question鈥
2023 Lignum Vitae Film Festival (LVFF) at Northern Caribbean University
- Best Overall Picture- 鈥淭he Man Who Kill Jim Crow鈥
- Best Silent Film- 鈥淓T T-Shirt鈥
- Best Commercial- 鈥淕辞谤驳别辞耻蝉鈥
- Christian Lawson
- Princess Aja Knight
- Dylan Lafontant
- Best Actor- Irvin 鈥楶ax鈥 Fordham 鈥淭he Question鈥
- Best Overall Post Production- Fitzroy Powell 鈥淭he Question鈥
- Best Director- Willie 鈥楾rey鈥 Davis III 鈥The Question鈥
- Best Cinematography- Rachele Shoats 鈥淭he Question鈥澛
2023 Sonscreen Film Festival (North American Division) at Loma Linda
- Best Art/ Experimental Short- 鈥淣ina鈥檚 Song鈥澛
- Best Narrative Short Honorable Mention- 鈥淭he Question鈥
- Best Narrative Short Official Selection- 鈥凄别尘颈别鈥
- Best Documentary Official Selection- 鈥淏oth Sides of the Fence鈥
- Best Narrative Short Official Selection- 鈥沦迟补测鈥
- Best Narrative Short Official Selection- 鈥淲ear the Shirt鈥
2023 Society of Adventist Communicators Conference
- Best Student Broadcast Project- 鈥淭emperature Check- 51视频 University鈥
- Hannah Browning
- Lexus Ward
- Mckenna Cameron
- Irvin 鈥楶ax鈥 Fordham
- Jordan Braithwaite
- Khari Person
- Jayden Mabena
- Best Student Documentary Honorable Mention- 鈥淏oth Sides of the Fence鈥
- Hannah Browning
- Fitzroy Powell
- Trinia Blackmon
2023 Green Room Film Festival at 51视频 University
- Best Cinematography- Fitzroy Powell 鈥淏oth Sides of The Fence鈥
- Best Commercial- 鈥淛aguar Gorgeous鈥
- Best Director- Samlyne Georges 鈥淣ina鈥檚 Song鈥
- Best Original Screenplay- Ayitey Aryee鈥5 Death鈥
- Best Overall Post-Production- Fitzroy Powell 鈥淭he Question鈥
- Best Producer- Hannah Browning 鈥淣ina鈥檚 Song鈥
- Best Short Film- 鈥淭he Question鈥
- The Green Room Award- 鈥淒oggy Date
2023 HBCU First Look Film Festival at Howard University in D.C.
- Best Short Film Honorable Mention- 鈥沦迟补测鈥
- Best Short Film Finalist- 鈥淲ear the Shirt鈥
- Best Short Finalist- 鈥淭he Question鈥
- Best Documentary Film Honorable Mention- 鈥淭he Man Who Kill Jim Crow鈥
2023 Black Film Festival Atlanta in Atlanta (OFFICIAL SELECTION)聽
- Best Short Film- 鈥淭he Question鈥
2024 Green Room Film Festival at 51视频 University
- Best Short Film- 鈥淧颈肠蝉鈥
- Best Director- Hannah Browning 鈥淧颈肠蝉鈥
- Best Cinematography- Irvin 鈥楶ax鈥 Fordham 鈥淧颈肠蝉鈥
- Best Overall Post Production- Khari Dixon 鈥淭his Time, It鈥檚 Personal鈥
2024 Sonscreen Film Festival in California (OFFICIAL SELECTIONS)
- Best Art/ Experimental Short- 鈥淎诲诲颈肠迟别诲鈥澛
- Best Narrative Short- 鈥淭his Time, It鈥檚 Personal鈥
2024 Sonscreen Film Festival in California
- Best Art/ Experimental Short- 鈥淲ords Have Power鈥
- Best Narrative Short- 鈥淧颈肠蝉鈥
- Jury Award: Best Archival Research– 鈥淭he Man Who Killed Jim Crow鈥
2024 Queen City Film Festival in New Jersey (OFFICIAL SELECTION)聽
- Best Narrative Short- 鈥淧颈肠蝉鈥
- Best Art/ Experimental Short- 鈥淲ords Have Power鈥
2024 Black Film Festival Atlanta in Atlanta (OFFICIAL SELECTION)聽
- Best Short Film- 鈥淧颈肠蝉鈥
- Best Documentary– 鈥淭he Man Who Killed Jim Crow鈥
2024 HBCU First Look Film Festival at Howard University in D.C. (OFFICIAL SELECTION)
- Best Short Film– 鈥淧颈肠蝉鈥
- Best Short Film– 鈥淲ords Have Power鈥
- Best Short Film- 鈥淭his Time, It鈥檚 Personal鈥
- Best Short Film- 鈥淎濒辞苍别鈥
2024 Society of Adventist Communicators Conference
- Best Student Broadcast Project- 鈥淎n Ode to Black- 51视频 University鈥
- Eliana Dean
- Tamar Poole
- Alexa Vanterpool
- Cameron Kinard
- Kalen McCottry
- Dewayne Cole
- Daymarelis Lozano
- Isaiah Price
- Jaden Hinds
- Melaina Goodridge
- Best Short Film (Student) Honorable Mention- 鈥淭his Time, It鈥檚 Personal鈥
- Aja Knight
- Paulette Gates
- Christian Lawson
- Khari Dixon
- Nya Bowman
- Khorisee Joseph
- Patrick Minor, Jr.
- Osias Morales Ruiz
- Dylan Lafontant
- Hannah Browning
FTV in Action: A Visual Journey
Experience the creativity, passion, and hard work of our Film & Television students through photos that capture behind-the-scenes moments, award-winning projects, and industry experiences.
Communication Club
- The specific and primary purpose is to provide a vehicle through which communication students may enhance their skills and experience by completing practical projects, and working with professional and semi-professional communicators and organizations.
- The general purpose is to actively promote the highest standards of communication creativity, performance, education and research.
Club Objectives
- To increase the skill level of members, through the use of projects (Inside 51视频, Commercials, Public Relations) so members will be able to have experience in there area of interest
- To develop a sense of comradeship between Communication majors and minors
- To make the club more visible in the community and throughout campus (ie, community service activities, participation in preliminaries at Prayer Meeting, etc.)
- To provide networking outlets to secure internships and jobs after graduation.
- To establish a system of mentoring
Membership
Members 鈥 Any major or minor regularly enrolled at 51视频 University who maintains a minimum of 2.0 GPA – Dues ~ $10 per semester, $18 per year
Club Officer 鈥 Any student member is nomination as a club officer who:
- Meets the University鈥檚 eligibility of a 2.5 GPA
- Is a communication major or minor and
- Is a dues-paying club member
Officer Positions 鈥 president, president-elect (vice president), secretary, treasurer, chaplain, and public relations officer.聽 Appointed officers are: assistant secretary and assistant public relations officer
Textbook Scholarship
Eligibility Criteria –聽 the club will give 3 textbook scholarships in the form of $75 bookstore vouchers.聽 Applicants must:
- Be a registered member of the club for at least one semester;
- Have dues paid currently
- Have met club meeting attendance requirements (two unexcused absences allowed)
- Have the application turned in by the deadline
Internships
The Department of Communication at 51视频 University offers students valuable internship opportunities to gain practical experience in various fields. These internships are designed to complement academic learning and prepare students for successful careers in communication.
1. Public Relations Intern
听听 – Assist with media relations, event planning, and content creation for local non-profits.
听听 – Gain experience in crafting press releases and managing social media accounts.
2. Broadcast Journalism Intern
听听 – Engage in hands-on experience with audio and video production for campus radio and television stations.
听听 – Participate in news gathering, editing, and on-air reporting.
听听 – Write articles, conduct interviews, and report on campus events for the university鈥檚 newspaper or online publication.
听听 – Work on multimedia storytelling projects.
3. Social Media Intern
听听 – Help manage and create content for various social media platforms.
听听 – Analyze engagement metrics and assist in developing social media strategies.
4. Corporate Communication Intern
听听 – Collaborate with corporate teams to assist in internal communications, employee engagement, and branding initiatives.
听听 – Support the development of communication strategies and presentations.
5. Film and TV Production Intern
听听 – Assist with pre-production, shooting, and post-production for film and television projects.
听听 – Gain hands-on experience with equipment and editing software.
6. Graphic Design Intern
听听 – Work on creating visual content for marketing materials, websites, and social media.
听听 – Collaborate with teams to develop branding and promotional strategies.
7. Photography Intern
听听 – Capture images for events, publications, and promotional materials.
听听 – Assist in editing and organizing a photography portfolio for university projects.
Application Process
Students interested in internships should contact the Department of Communication for more information on available positions, application deadlines, and eligibility requirements. Internships can be tailored to fit students鈥 academic and career goals, providing a pathway to enhance their skills and professional network.
List of Internships
- Students in the department of communication are responsible for finding their own internships.
- HBCU IN LA, an industry leading internship program, offers internships within the entertainment industry. This is a highly competitive program.
Student Organizations
- NAOUBJ
The National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) at 51视频 University is a student chapter of the national organization dedicated to supporting Black journalists and media professionals. It aims to foster the development and advancement of students interested in journalism and media careers.
Mission and Goals
NABJ鈥檚 mission includes:
- Promoting diversity in journalism and media industries.
- Providing resources, mentorship, and professional development for aspiring journalists.
- Advocating for fair representation and coverage of Black communities in the media.
Activities and Opportunities
Members of NABJ at 51视频 University can participate in various activities, including:
- Workshops and Panels: Educational sessions on journalism practices, media ethics, and industry trends.
- Networking Events: Opportunities to connect with professionals, alumni, and fellow students in the field.
- Internship Opportunities: Assistance in finding internships and job placements within the journalism field.
- Community Engagement: Projects that focus on issues affecting the local and broader community, promoting media literacy and awareness.
Membership
Membership is open to all students at 51视频 University who have an interest in journalism, media, and communications. Joining NABJ provides access to valuable resources, networking opportunities, and the chance to engage with the journalism community.
For more information about NABJ at 51视频 University, students can reach out to the Department of Communication or check the organization鈥檚 social media channels.
- Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA)
The Public Relations Student Society of America (PRSSA) at 51视频 University is a student organization dedicated to fostering the education and professional development of students interested in the field of public relations.
Mission and Goals
PRSSA aims to:
– Provide students with opportunities to learn about public relations through workshops, guest speakers, and networking events.
– Encourage practical experience through internships and hands-on projects.
– Promote ethical standards and best practices in the field of communication.
Activities and Opportunities
Members of PRSSA engage in various activities, including:
– Workshops and Seminars: Covering topics such as media relations, crisis communication, and digital marketing.
– Networking Events: Connecting with industry professionals and alumni to explore career opportunities.
– Community Service Projects: Applying public relations skills to benefit local organizations and initiatives.
– Competitions: Participating in national PRSSA competitions to showcase skills and gain recognition.
Membership
Membership is open to all 51视频 University students interested in public relations and communication. Joining PRSSA provides valuable resources, mentorship, and a chance to build a professional network.
For more information about joining or participating in PRSSA at 51视频 University, students can reach out to the Department of Communication or visit the organization’s social media pages.
- IIIOaks Studios
IIIOaks Studios is a creative multimedia production studio at 51视频 University that serves as a hub for students interested in various aspects of film, television, and digital media production. The studio is designed to provide hands-on experience and equip students with the skills needed for successful careers in the creative industries.
Mission and Goals
IIIOaks Studios aims to:
- Foster creativity and innovation among students in multimedia production.
- Provide practical experience with industry-standard equipment and technology.
- Encourage collaboration on projects that promote storytelling and artistic expression.
Facilities and Resources
IIIOaks Studios is equipped with:
- Production Equipment: High-quality cameras, lighting, and sound equipment for film and video projects.
- Editing Suites: Software and tools for video editing, sound design, and post-production work.
- Studio Space: Dedicated areas for shooting, rehearsals, and creative collaboration.
Activities and Opportunities
Students involved with IIIOaks Studios can participate in:
- Film and Video Projects: Collaborating on short films, documentaries, and promotional videos.
- Workshops and Training: Learning about production techniques, scriptwriting, and post-production processes.
- Screenings and Showcases: Presenting completed projects to the university community and beyond.
Membership and Involvement
Participation in IIIOaks Studios is open to all 51视频 University students interested in film, television, and digital media. It provides a unique opportunity to gain practical experience, build a portfolio, and connect with peers who share similar interests.
For more information about IIIOaks Studios and how to get involved, students can contact the Department of Communication or visit the studio’s official pages.
Are you thinking about applying to 51视频 University soon? Here鈥檚 a quick guide on everything you need to do to get into the Department of Communication.
MEET THE FACULTY
-
Stephen Kabah, Ph.D., MBA, MDiv.
Chair
skabah@oakwood.edu
(256) 726 -7197
Ford Hall Room 217
-
Rennae Elliott, Ph. D.
Associate Professor
elliott@oakwood.edu
(256) 726 – 7587
Ford Hall Room 220
-
Paulette Gates, M.A.
Assistant Professor
Film & Television Coordinator
pgates@oakwood.edu
(256) 726 – 7583
Leroy & Lois Peters Media Center Room 305
-
Dwayne Cheddar, DProf.
Associate Professor
dacheddar@oakwood.edu
(256) 726 – 7189
Leroy & Lois Peters Media Center Room 303
-
Janice Watson, Ph. D.
Associate Professor
jwatson@oakwood.edu
(256) 726 – 7184
Burrell Hall Room 100A
-
Olson A. Perry, Sr.
Assistant Professor,
Print/Digital Media Coordinator
operry@oakwood.edu
(256) 726 – 7322
Ford Hall Room 203
-
Dawnette Chambers
Assistant Professor
Public Relations Coordinator
Dchambers@oakwood.edu
(256) 726 – 8108
Ford Hall Room 202
MEET THE STAFF
-
Samlyne Georges
Office Manager
sgeorges@oakwood.edu
-
Myra Graves
Media Lab Technician
mgraves@oakwood.edu
We offer four distinct majors as follows:
MAJORS:
1. Visual Media (A.S)
Concentrations: Graphic Design, Photography
2. Communication (B.A)
Concentrations: Communication Arts, Public Relations
3. Communication Media (B.A)
Concentrations: Broadcast Journalism, Film & TV Production, Print/Digital Media
4. Visual Media (B.A)
Concentrations: Graphic Design, Photography, Photojournalism
The minors offered include Art, Communication Arts, Public Relations, Broadcast Journalism, Film & Television Production, Print/Digital Media, Graphic Design, Photography and Photojournalism.
Programs and Majors/ Academic Programs
Associate of Science Degree Programs
Communication Minors
CLUB:
- Communication Club
AR 111 : Fundamentals of Drawing
4 HOURS
CO 201 : Fundamentals of Public Speaking
4 HOURS
CO 342 : Radio and TV Broadcasting
3 HOURS
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Anchor WPMI-TV/Local 15, Mobile, AL
BA in Communication Media: Print Journalism
AS in Art: Photography

















