Jared Thompson

Jared Thompson is an Assistant Professor of Digital Media Design at West Liberty University, affiliated with the Department of Media and Visual Arts within the College of Liberal and Creative Arts. He previously served as Creative Video Director for the Office of Marketing and Brand Management at WLU and has over 12 years of experience in live production. Thompson also operates Thompson Video, a small business, and has been the web content producer for the West Virginia Governor’s School for the Arts since 2008.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science in Digital Media Design, West Liberty University (2009)
• Master of Art in Education Technology, West Liberty University (2013)
• Master of Fine Art in Film, Vermont College of Fine Arts (2018)

Research & Teaching Interests: Thompson’s expertise spans digital media design, film production (including documentary and narrative techniques), photography, and education technology. He emphasizes practical skills such as editing in Premiere, screenwriting, and portfolio development through courses like DMD 203, DMD 307, and COM 403. His work blends academic rigor with professional industry experience, showcased in commercials, athletic events, and media featured on CNBC Squawk Alley (2014).

Advising & Professional Activities: Thompson has taught over a dozen courses at WLU, including foundational art and communication classes. Beyond academia, he contributes to creative arts initiatives through his business and the Governor’s School for the Arts. His career reflects a dual focus on education and professional media production.

Labs/Teams: Affiliated with West Liberty’s Media and Visual Arts department, Nutting Gallery, and the WLU Creative Arts Therapy Club. His work also intersects with the University’s Visual Communication Design and Digital Media Design programs.