Melissa McClinton

Melissa McClinton (professionally known as Safiya Songhai) is an Assistant Professor of Video Production and Immersive Media at the University of Nevada, Reno. She is a multifaceted academic and media professional, combining her roles as a film director, Emmy Award-winning television producer, and broadcast journalist.

• Education: Summa Cum Laude graduate of Howard University (BA in Film Production, Mass Communications); MFA from New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts, Kanbar Institute of Film and Television.

Her research and creative work focuses on themes of sisterhood, mother/child relationships, religion, spirituality, and the male gaze, particularly through narratives centered on Black female protagonists. She has pioneered media production pedagogy, teaching courses such as Advanced Media Production and Narrative: The Art of Storytelling.

In her professional work, she has garnered recognition including Emmy Awards and top honors at film festivals. Her films LadyLike and In Silent Spaces premiered on PBS and were integrated into educational curricula. She also contributes to television commentary and international news coverage.

• Scientific Awards: Emmy Award for television production; multiple film festival honors.

Melissa serves on various university committees, including the Cultural Diversity Committee and Graduate Faculty, and advises student organizations such as Vibrant Voices. Her office is located in RSJ 103D, University of Nevada, Reno (Phone: (775) 682-7642).