Monday, October 27: Monday Musings

Location: Winnet Student Life Building, Great Hall, Room S2-19
Theme: Industry Insights and Inspiration Lessons from the Newsroom with CNN’s Danny Freeman | 9:40 to 11:10 a.m.

Join us as we kick off CMS Takeover Week with keynote speaker Danny Freeman, a CNN correspondent based in Philadelphia. Freeman has reported on some of the nation’s most pressing stories, including the 2024 presidential race in Pennsylvania, the federal death penalty trial of the Pittsburgh synagogue shooter, and the assassination attempt on President Donald Trump.

In this keynote, Freeman will reflect on his journey through journalism and share insights into the future of storytelling in a digital world. With experience ranging from campaign embeds during the 2016 presidential race to investigative reporting on campaign finance, environmental issues, and police accountability, Freeman offers a front-row perspective on what it means to be a journalist today. His talk will inspire students—many of whom are aspiring journalists—by exploring the challenges and opportunities facing the profession and why the role of news remains vital in a rapidly changing media landscape.

Behind the Podium: CMS Faculty Career Stories | 11:20 a.m. to 12:50 p.m.

Meet the professors behind the Communication and Media Studies program! The goal of the session is to give students an opportunity to hear directly from their professors about the diverse paths that led to careers in communication and media studies. Some of them pursued PhDs and academic research, while others bring extensive industry experience in journalism, communication strategy, and beyond. By sharing their professional and academic journeys, they will highlight the many directions this field can take and inspire students as they think about their own futures. 

Public Media Matters: A Bridging Blocks Conversation | 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Public media faces growing threats—from funding cuts to political polarization—that challenge its ability to provide independent, trusted news, and foster civic dialogue. WHYY’s Bridging Blocks program is coming to campus for a community event that creates space to discuss why public media is essential, what’s at stake, and how we can protect this vital resource. The conversation will be led by Brisa Luzzi Castro (Community Convener), Tony Cuffie (Senior Manager for Community & Engagement), Kevin Donahue (Editor of Billy Penn and Senior Director of Specialty News Projects), and Kenny Cooper (Multiplatform Reporter), who will share their expertise and experiences from inside Philadelphia’s public media newsroom.

Tuesday, October 28: Toolkit Tuesday

Location: Winnet Student Life Building, Great Hall, Room S2-19
Theme: Skills Workshops

In Conversation with Zach Berman: Sports Media, Storytelling, and the Eagles | 9:40 to 11:10 a.m.

Join us for a special conversation with Zach Berman, Senior Writer at The Athletic—the sports journalism department of The New York Times—and author of three acclaimed books on the Philadelphia Eagles, including his latest release, Leap Year: The Philadelphia Eagles’ Ascent to Super Bowl Champions (September 2025). Berman has covered the Eagles since 2012 and brings a wealth of experience from The Athletic, The Philadelphia Inquirer, The Washington Post, and more.

In this interactive session, Berman will share insights from his career in sports journalism, discuss the book-writing process, and answer your questions about covering the NFL, writing for major publications, and building a career in sports media.

Beyond the Beat: Hip-Hop Journalism in the Digital Age | 11:20 a.m. to 12:50 p.m.

Led by award-winning journalist Earl Hopkins, this workshop explores the past, present, and future of hip-hop journalism. Hopkins will share insights into the skills, ethics, and creative approaches needed to cover the genre in today’s digital media landscape. Aspiring hip-hop journalists will gain a deeper understanding of the field’s roots in music culture and leave with tools to craft compelling, multimedia hip-hop stories.

Earl Hopkins is an arts and culture reporter for The Philadelphia Inquirer. His work has appeared in Billboard, Grammy.com, UPROXX, Spin, and other major outlets. He also co-hosts the music review podcast Rap & Reason and is the author of the forthcoming book Raps of Resistance: How Kendrick Lamar and J. Cole Reignited a Hip-Hop Tradition (May 2026).

Introduction to Public Relations: Your First Steps into the Communications World | 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Public relations is one of the most dynamic and influential fields in the communications industry. This workshop offers students a clear and engaging introduction to PR, exploring how it shapes public perception, builds relationships, and drives success for businesses, organizations, and individuals. Participants will learn what sets PR apart from marketing and advertising, discover the key skills and tools used by professionals—like media relations, storytelling, and campaign planning—and explore real-world examples of PR strategies that made a lasting impact. The session will also highlight career pathways and opportunities in communications and public relations, giving students the knowledge and confidence to take their first steps into the field.

The workshop will be led by Teresa M. Lundy, Principal and Founder of TML Communications, an award-winning public relations and crisis communications firm with a national reputation for excellence. Lundy has guided high-profile clients such as DoorDash, Lyft, Zipcar, Temple University, and the Office of the Sheriff of Philadelphia. She is also the voice behind The Business Corner, a monthly column in Metro Philadelphia. Widely recognized as one of Philadelphia’s most influential leaders, Lundy brings a wealth of expertise, a deep commitment to community engagement, and inspiring insights into the power of communication to drive both business and social impact.

Wednesday, October 29: Workplace Wednesday

Location: Winnet Student Life Building, Great Hall, Room S2-19
Theme: Professional Readiness

Showcasing Your Story: Résumés, Portfolios & LinkedIn | 9:40 to 11:10 a.m.

Presented by Career Connections

Your story matters—and how you present it can make all the difference. In this interactive workshop, students will learn how to craft résumés tailored specifically for media and communication careers, build digital portfolios that showcase their best work, and optimize LinkedIn profiles to highlight skills, projects, and career goals. Participants will also explore sample résumés and portfolios from communication and media studies professionals, gaining inspiration and practical guidance for creating their own compelling professional brand.

Breaking In & Standing Out: Internships, Networking & Interviewing | 11:20 a.m. to 12:50 p.m.

Presented by Career Connections

This workshop will demystify the process of securing and thriving in internships while helping students build confidence for the job market. The session will cover where to find internships as community college students—whether at local news outlets, PR agencies, nonprofits, or corporate communication offices—along with strategies for tailoring applications and cover letters. Students will also learn how to prepare for interview, explore networking strategies using LinkedIn, industry events, and alumni connections, and learn how to frame internships as stepping stones to future jobs or transfer opportunities.

Building Your Personal Brand Through Social Media | 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Social media is one of the most powerful tools for shaping both your professional and personal brand. In this workshop, students will learn from Talaya Martin-Smith—social media professional, content creator, and award-winning independent filmmaker—how to create engaging content, grow an authentic online presence, and leverage digital platforms to support career and networking opportunities. She will also share behind-the-scenes insights from her work in social media and content creation.

Martin-Smith is the founder of Creative Consulting Co. and has extensive experience as an Associate Podcast Producer and News Production Assistant at KYW Newsradio, where she produced content, structured interviews, and contributed to both editorial and social media teams. Beyond her professional roles, Martin-Smith is an influencer who creates content focused on personal branding and storytelling. Through Creative Consulting Co., she helps clients grow their social media presence and develop authentic, impactful online brands.

Thursday, October 30: Transfer Thursday

Location: Winnet Student Life Building, Great Hall, Room S2-19
Theme: Defending Democracy: Communication in Troubled Times

As part of Communication and Media Studies Takeover Week, the Community College of Philadelphia welcomes distinguished faculty from our partner transfer institutions for a powerful day of lectures and dialogue. This event explores the critical role of communication as a tool for resilience, justice, and social change during moments of crisis.

From global conflicts and political polarization to threats against journalism and public trust, democracy is increasingly tested in today’s world. In these moments, communication is more than just the exchange of information—it is a lifeline that shapes public opinion, mobilizes communities, and challenges systems of power.

Through four dynamic guest lectures, students will gain insight into how communication can defend democratic values, amplify marginalized voices, and inspire action in troubled times. Faculty from Temple University, West Chester University, Thomas Jefferson University, and La Salle University will bring unique perspectives on the ways media, rhetoric, and dialogue can strengthen democracy and foster hope for the future.

Schedule

9:40 to 10:25 a.m.

Jason Del Gandio, Ph.D.
Professor of Instruction, Communication
Temple University

10:30 to 11:10 a.m.

Sara Levin, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Communication and Media
West Chester University 

11:20 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Bryce Renninger, Ph.D., J.D.
Assistant Professor, Communication and Media Studies
Director, Communication and Media Studies Program
Thomas Jefferson University 

12:05 to 12:45 p.m.

Kelly Daily, Ph.D.
Professor, Communication
Chair, Communication and Expressive Arts
La Salle University 

CMS Student and Faculty Luncheon | 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Join CMS students and faculty for a celebratory lunch marking the close of Communication and Media Studies Takeover Week! This gathering is a chance to relax, connect, and reflect after a full week of panels, lectures, and workshops. We’ll enjoy food and conversation, and share insights on what we’ve learned throughout the week.

Registration is required to attend the luncheon. Space is limited, so be sure to reserve your spot in advance.