Shanti Kumar is an Associate Professor in the Department of Radio-Television-Film at The University of Texas at Austin and a faculty affiliate in the Department of Asian Studies, the Center for Asian-American Studies, and the South Asia Institute. His educational background includes: B.Sc. in Math, Physics and Chemistry from Osmania University, Hyderabad, India (1987) B.A. in Communication and Journalism from Osmania University (1988) M.A. in Communication and Journalism from Osmania University (1989) M.A. in Media Studies from Texas Christian University (1994) Ph.D. in Telecommunications from Indiana University-Bloomington (1998) Prof. Kumar's research centers on Global and International Media with specialized focus on South Asian Media and Postcolonial Media . His work critically examines Media History , Media Criticism , and Identity and Representation within globalization contexts, exemplified by his book Gandhi Meets Primetime: Globalization and Nationalism in Indian Television (2006) and co-edited volumes like Television at Large in South Asia (2012). Prior to joining UT Austin in 2006, he taught at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the University of North Texas. His industry experience includes journalism as a sub-editor/reporter for Deccan Chronicle and multimedia design/scriptwriting at CMC Limited in India.
Dr. Kiray M. Khoury is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication and Media at Canadian University Dubai (CUD), affiliated with the School of Communication and Creative Industries. She brings extensive international teaching experience from institutions in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Lebanon, including the University of Saint Joseph, Notre Dame University, Lebanese University, and UK International College. Her educational background includes a PhD in Communication and Media Studies from the University of East London (awarded with full scholarship) and certification as a mental health coach from Light University in the USA, specializing in youth mental health. Research interests span: Core focus: Technology adoption in mass media and social media's impact on Generation Z mental health Media production: Arab media studies, scriptwriting, journalism, and digital content creation Strategic communication: Advertising, PR, crisis management, consumer behavior Digital ecosystems: Social change, digital marketing, and multimedia communication Awards include a competitive full scholarship for doctoral studies at the University of East London. Professional activities feature curriculum development for the Lebanese Army, student collaborations with organizations like Nestlé, leadership of media literacy video projects, conference participation on digital media trends, and workshops on youth mental health advocacy in the UAE. Prior industry experience includes roles as scriptwriter, journalist, and television host at Future Television, plus leadership as Head of Public Relations in Lebanon.
Krzysztof Cicheński is an interdisciplinary artist, academic lecturer, and opera director affiliated with the Faculty of Interior Design and Scenography at Magdalena Abakanowicz University of Arts in Poznań (UAP). Since 2025, he holds the rank of Assistant Professor at the Department of Scenography, where he teaches courses such as 'Selected issues in the history of theatre and drama' and 'Introduction to directing.' Education : Doctoral degree in art (visual arts and art conservation) from UAP (2024); Inter-Faculty Interdisciplinary Studies in Humanities (Master's) at Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznań (2005–2010). His artistic practice merges opera direction, playwright, libretto writing, set design, and sound art. He specializes in interdisciplinary performances that blend spatial activities, sound installations, and operatic installations, often exploring themes like forgotten works, historical narratives, and socio-cultural commentary. Notable projects include the 2024 opera Wedding (libretto and direction), the 2023 interdisciplinary Landscape , and the 2022 research-based performance The Devil's Wheel , which interrogates the ontological status of lost artworks. His work frequently involves collaborations with institutions like the Zbigniew Raszewski Theatre Institute and Grand Theatre in Warsaw. Scientific Awards : Scholarship of the Ministry of Culture and National Heritage (2024, 2020) Scholarship of the Marshal of the Wielkopolska Voivodeship (2013) He co-founded the Automaton Theatre (2005–2018) and has taught at institutions including Adam Mickiewicz University and the Academy of Music in Poznań. His projects are supported by programs like 'Placówka,' which funds innovative theatrical explorations.
Brian Fagence is a Lecturer in Critical Studies and Scriptwriting at the University of South Wales, Faculty of Business and Creative Industries, and serves as the MA Animation Course Leader. He is affiliated with the Creative Industries Research and Innovation Group and has been an active academic since 1998, previously teaching at the University of Glamorgan and the Glamorgan Centre for Art and Design Technology. PhD in Scriptwriting and Transmedia Storytelling (2016) MA in Scriptwriting PGCE BA (Hons) in Communication Studies His research focuses on transmedia storytelling , scriptwriting , and creative writing across animation, comics, and computer games. He explores how narratives are constructed and transformed across media, emphasizing multimodality, storyworld design, and authorship. His work bridges creative practice and theoretical inquiry, often revealing narrative processes through artistic experimentation. Brian's recent publications highlight a consistent engagement with transmedia narrative structures , comics-specific writing techniques , and world-building . His articles explore how stories transcend single media, how scriptwriting adapts to animation and games, and how meaning is constructed in visual and interactive formats. The research demonstrates interdisciplinary reach, combining media studies, creative writing, and digital culture. While no formal scientific awards are listed, his scholarly contributions are recognized through invited talks and conference participation, including keynote roles at major events like the International Graphic Novel and Comics Conference. Brian has extensive experience in curriculum development and academic leadership, having led modules across multiple programs including MA Animation, BA (Hons) Animation, Computer Games Design, and Game Art. He previously led Digital Video Design and Multimedia programs. He also supervised his own doctoral thesis on transmedia storytelling, indicating capacity for research mentorship. He is actively involved in the Creative Industries Research and Innovation Group , contributing to research outputs, organizing events like Creative Comics, Creating Comics 2020, and participating in symposia on graphic narratives. His academic activities reflect a strong commitment to both creative practice and scholarly discourse in contemporary media.
Dr. Caterina Ramon Bordoi serves as Associate Professor of Artistic and Aesthetic Education at the University of the Balearic Islands within the Faculty of Education. Her academic career spans multiple institutions including the University of Barcelona, Polytechnic University of Catalonia, CESAG, and UOC, with current teaching responsibilities across Primary Education and Early Childhood Education degree programs. Her educational background includes: Fine Arts degree from the University of Barcelona Research qualification in Art and Image Technology from the University of Barcelona Master's degree in Information and Knowledge Society from UOC Dr. Ramon Bordoi's research focuses on the intersection of visual arts education and digital media, with particular expertise in narrative structures across traditional and interactive platforms. Her professional experience extends beyond academia to include screenwriting and content direction at Televisió de Catalunya and IB3 Televisió, providing practical industry perspective to her academic work. Her publications reveal a consistent scholarly trajectory examining narrative forms, evolving from foundational multimedia scriptwriting to specialized areas like sequential and interactive digital narrative. This progression demonstrates her adaptation to evolving media technologies while maintaining focus on educational applications. She actively contributes to academic research through membership in two significant groups: Arte y Educación - Laboratorio de Música y Arte (GRAiE - Mus&Art Lab) Evolución y Cognición Humana (EvoCog) Her current teaching portfolio encompasses both theoretical foundations and practical applications of art education across multiple educational stages, from early childhood through primary education and into teacher training programs.
Cora A. Alley is an Adjunct Associate Professor of English in the Department of English at Hope International University, where she teaches courses in composition, literature, dramatic writing, and children's literature. Her academic work is deeply rooted in integrating faith and creative expression, particularly through the use of drama in Christian ministry and education. Her educational background includes an M.A. in Theater, an M.S. in Education, and a B.A. in Theater & English, all from California State University, Fullerton. She also holds multiple teaching credentials and a Hollywood scriptwriting certificate, underscoring her interdisciplinary expertise. Dr. Alley's research and professional interests focus on the use of drama in sermon illustrations, training writers for church and secular audiences, and developing creative curricula for children's ministry. She emphasizes critical thinking, articulate writing, and the artistic communication of the Gospel. Her work bridges academic rigor with practical ministry application. The recent publications and projects reflect a sustained commitment to Christian storytelling across media—ranging from skits and passion plays to magazine columns and curriculum design. These works span decades and demonstrate a consistent focus on evangelism, spiritual formation, and educational innovation within faith communities. Who's Who Among American Educators Outstanding Faculty Service Award, Pacific Christian College Excellence In Children's Ministry Award, International Network of Children's Ministry Excellence in Theatrical Direction, Inland Empire Theater Guild Excellence in Drama Ministry, Crossroads Christian Church Dr. Alley has advised and contributed to numerous ministry training programs and curricula, notably the Children's Ministry Training Series for the International Network of Children's Ministry. She has also been a freelance writer for major Christian publications such as GROUP Magazine, WORSHIP LEADER, and THE LOOKOUT. Her work has been supported through ministry outreach initiatives rather than traditional academic grants, reflecting her unique position at the intersection of education and religious communication. She is actively involved in creating dramatic resources for churches, including original plays, pageants, and skit curricula. Her projects like 'INKspirations' and 'SKITuations' serve as comprehensive tools for youth and adult ministries, emphasizing experiential learning and spiritual engagement.
Nicoline van Harskamp is a Professor of Performative Art at the Kunstakademie Münster. Her work explores language dynamics, globalization, and technology through performance, installation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. She holds degrees from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts (Den Haag), Chelsea College (London), and the Rijksakademie (Amsterdam). Research interests include the evolution of English as a global language, the intersection of performance art with activism, and the impact of digital technology on artistic expression. Notable projects include Yours in Solidarity (2010–2013), Englishes (2014–2016), and the ongoing Prosodia series investigating synthetic speech and AI. Her works have been exhibited globally, including at the Tate Modern, Performa 11, and the Sydney Biennale. Collaborations include projects with institutions like the Sandberg Institute and Loughborough University’s Discourse and Rhetoric Group. Prosodia (2024) merges AI-generated speech with live performance, while Englishes MOOC offers an online course on multilingual art practices. Awards and grants include support from the Creative Industries Fund and the Pauwhof Fund. Van Harskamp’s class at Kunstakademie emphasizes cross-disciplinary collaboration, with projects like Performance Room and Actors and Directors . Her work interrogates language’s role in identity, politics, and technology, blending academic rigor with artistic innovation.
Lilia Topouzova is an Assistant Professor of History and Creative Nonfiction at the University of Toronto, affiliated with the Centre for European and Eurasian Studies. Her work bridges academic research and media arts, focusing on political violence, trauma, and public memory in post-communist Eastern Europe. She holds a SSHRC Connection Grant for interdisciplinary projects on authoritarian legacies and collaborates on multimedia installations like *The Neighbours: Forms of Trauma*. **Research Interests**: Her scholarship examines the Bulgarian gulag system, state repression, and memory studies. She critically engages historical sources while emphasizing public-facing scholarship through documentary film, digital storytelling, and immersive installations. Recent projects explore the intersections of trauma, space, and collective memory in post-communist societies. **Awards & Recognition**: Recipient of the 2018 Souyz Outstanding Article Prize for work on Bulgarian gulag history and the 2007 Human Rights Award (Sarajevo Film Festival) for her documentary *The Mosquito Problem & Other Stories*. Her films have premiered at TIFF and Cannes, reviewed in major media outlets. **Grants & Collaborations**: SSHRC Connection Grant (*Authoritarianism: Lives, Legacies, Traumas*) with Joshua Arthurs. Collaborative art projects include *The Neighbours: Forms of Trauma* (2024 Heritage Toronto People’s Choice Award winner). Fellowships at institutions like Leibniz-Zentrum für Zeithistorische Forschung (Germany), Brown University, and York University. **Creative Works**: Scriptwriter and co-director of documentaries *The Mosquito Problem & Other Stories* (2007) and *Saturnia* (2012). Her creative nonfiction appears in *The European Review of Books*, while academic writing explores visual literacy and digital humanities pedagogy.
Michelle Williams Gamaker is a Professor in Fine Art at Goldsmiths, University of London, where she teaches in the Department of Art. Based in London, she is a moving image and performance artist whose work explores the fiction-making machine of 20th Century British and Hollywood studio films through restaging sequences to reveal cinematic construction and recasting characters to propose alternative endings. She is also Chair of Trustees at Pavilion in Leeds and co-founder of the Women of Colour Index (WOCI) Reading Group with Samia Malik and Rehana Zaman. 2016: Postgraduate Certificate in the Management of Teaching and Learning (HEA) 2012: PhD in Fine Art, Goldsmiths College, University of London 2005-06: MA Visual Anthropology, Goldsmiths College, University of London 1998-01: BA Fine Art (First Class Hons), Middlesex University 1997-98: BTEC Diploma in Art & Design, Middlesex University 2003-05: de Ateliers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands Williams Gamaker's key focus is the development of 'fictional activism': the restoration of marginalised brown characters as central figures who return in her works as vocal brown protagonists challenging historical cinematic injustices. Her practice involves scriptwriting, workshopping with actors, acquiring film paraphernalia, and producing props for intricate restagings of film sets. She explores migratory aesthetics, mental health, and the emotional complexities of capitalism and gender ideology through collaboration, particularly with artists Julia Kouneski and Mieke Bal. Her work with the WOCI Reading Group focuses on improving the visibility of women of colour artists while using archival material to generate discussion around current social and political concerns. Her recent works demonstrate a consistent exploration of postcolonial narratives, feminist film theory, and decolonial aesthetics. The Dissolution Trilogy represents a significant body of work that deconstructs Powell and Pressburger's 1947 Black Narcissus, revealing how cinematic construction shapes representation. Her filmic approach combines historical critique with contemporary theoretical frameworks, particularly around race, gender, and representation in cinema. Williams Gamaker is represented by Tintype Gallery, London, and her work has been exhibited internationally at venues including the BFI London Film Festival, Internationale Kurzfilmtage Winterthur, and various galleries across Europe. She has also presented at academic conferences such as Spectacular Evidence: Theatres of the Observed Mind, where she discussed Lygia Clark's work on 'biological architecture'. She has collaborated extensively with artist and cultural theorist Mieke Bal on projects including 'Madame B: Explorations in Emotional Capitalism' and 'Precarity,' which have been shown internationally at venues including Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, Gallery of Sydney College of the Arts, and Museum Bärengasse in Zürich. Her collaborative practice extends to her work with Julia Kouneski, revisiting Brazilian artist Lygia Clark's psychotherapeutic work as inspiration for interventions with the body, architecture and landscape.
Mislav Muretić serves as a lecturer at Algebra Bernays University, leveraging extensive industry experience in film and television production. Born in Zagreb, he completed his primary and secondary education there before graduating from the Academy of Dramatic Arts with a specialization in Film and TV Editing. His academic foundation includes: Academy of Dramatic Arts, Film and TV Editing (2002-2009) Muretić's professional expertise spans film editing, television production, and multimedia content creation. He has executed diverse projects including feature films, documentaries, commercials, music videos, and television shows across private and broadcast productions, frequently assuming multifaceted roles such as editor, director, producer, and scriptwriter. His industry experience features a five-year tenure managing shipboard television operations on an ocean-going cruise ship for an American company, where he oversaw technical infrastructure for 3-4 daily broadcast channels while maintaining satellite reception for 20+ channels. He also served as producer and production manager for a Zagreb-based production company, complementing his academic role with real-world media production insights.
Prof. Pia Marais is a Professor of Fictional Narrative and Feature Film Directing at the Academy of Media Arts Cologne (KHM), specializing in film direction and cross-cultural storytelling. She holds a formal appointment under the Film and Television department since April 2017. Education: Studied sculpture and photography at institutions in London, Amsterdam, and the Kunstakademie Düsseldorf, followed by film directing at the German Film and Television Academy Berlin (DFFB). Research interests include narrative techniques, experimental film, and the intersection of art and cinema. Her acclaimed films such as Die Unerzogenen (2007), Im Alter von Ellen (2010), and Layla Fourie (2013) have garnered awards like the Tiger Award and Berlinale jury mentions. Teaches advanced film direction seminars (SPÜ I, Teil 2) and the Encounters LAB program, focusing on creative strategy and market positioning for filmmakers. Current projects include the Secret Boy feature film in development. Recipient of notable awards including the Arte Cinema Award, Crossing Europe Award, and multiple jury recognitions. Active in international festivals and academic leadership at KHM's Film and Television division.
Erica Soto is an Assistant Professor of Journalism at St. Thomas Aquinas College (STAC), bringing over 15 years of experience as a bilingual multimedia journalist and producer. She specializes in fostering experiential learning, emphasizing cutting-edge technology and traditional tools to prepare students for broadcast media careers. Soto teaches courses such as Broadcast Journalism, Media Law & Ethics, and Video Production, ensuring students gain skills in scriptwriting, camera operation, and full production workflows. Education: B.A. in Broadcast Journalism from the University of Colorado Boulder; M.A. in Social Journalism from CUNY’s Graduate School of Journalism (inaugural class). Professional Experience: Freelance producer for StoryCorps (NPR), with credits including audio stories for Morning Edition. Previously worked on the Creative Arts Emmys (E!), Kids’ Choice Awards (Nickelodeon), and Model Latina (NuvoTV). Research & Commitment: Advocates for diversity in media and education, aligning with STAC’s focus on community and inclusion. Teaches the importance of covering multicultural perspectives, empowering students to shape the future of journalism. Awards: Imagen Award for the docuseries Puerto Rican Voices . Memberships: Freelancers Union, National Association of Hispanic Journalists. Teaching Philosophy: Prioritizes hands-on learning to bridge classroom theory with industry practices, ensuring students are prepared to innovate in evolving media landscapes. Finds fulfillment in mentoring students to become storytellers and media experts.
Alec Morgan is an Honorary Senior Lecturer at Macquarie University’s School of Communication, Society and Culture, and a leading figure in Australian film history and Indigenous media studies. His research focuses on Aboriginal filmmakers’ contributions to cultural preservation and the intersection of race, disability, and national identity. He has conducted extensive work on archival film repatriation and directed acclaimed documentaries such as Lousy Little Sixpence (on the Stolen Generations) and Hunt Angels (about early Australian filmmakers). Morgan holds a PhD from Macquarie University and has received over 30 awards, including three AACCTA Awards and the FHAANZ Joan Long Award. Education: PhD and MA in Media & Communications from Macquarie University (2003–2013). Research Projects: 'Visual Songlines' (Aboriginal filmmakers and Indigenous knowledge systems), 'Behind the White Curtain' (race, disability, and Australian identity). Affiliations: Centre for Media History (CMH), Macquarie University. His research interests span Indigenous film preservation, archival practices, and the socio-political dimensions of cinema. He has taught scriptwriting and screen production for over 25 years and produced films screened globally at festivals like Cannes and New York. Awards & Recognition: Gold Medal at the New York Film Festival Chicago Festival Gold Plaque Three ACCTA Awards for Hunt Angels Grants & Labs: Led MQRF projects like 'Ablaze' and contributed to initiatives such as the MQRIBG Audio-Visual Archive Rapid Prototyping Environment. His work bridges academic research and practical filmmaking, emphasizing cultural heritage and social justice.
Costanza Julia Bani is an Assistant Professor of Film and Media Production at Stockholm University of the Arts. Her research project Darkness Matters explores light/sound pollution through transdisciplinary collaboration between art, science, and technology. She leads a team investigating nocturnal ecosystems and speculative documentaries, aiming to inspire societal engagement with environmental issues. The project combines immersive 360° audio-visuals, AI tools, and full-dome exhibitions, with planned dissemination via institutions like Tekniska Museet and Vetenskapens Hus. Education: PhD in Film Studies (focus: drama-theory, trans-codifications, industry economics) Scriptwriting Diploma (dffb, Berlin) Producer Diploma (isff, Berlin) Research Interests: Her work bridges art and science to address ecological crises through innovative storytelling. She emphasizes post-humanist perspectives, eco-narratives, and sustainable production methods. Recent outputs include a VIS Journal #12 article and a multiscreen installation exhibited at the Museum of Performing Arts. Collaborations: Partnerships span institutions like KTH Royal Institute of Technology (NAVET hub), Lund University’s Biology Faculty, Karolinska Institutet, and international experts in astrophysics, biodiversity, and light pollution. She also collaborates with tech firms like SISME and Anamorph for immersive tech solutions. Awards & Recognition: Sundance Grantee 2019 EAVE Graduate 2015 Cannes Producers Network Participant TFL Alumna Teaching: Focuses on global filmmaking, impact production, and legal/distribution strategies. Seminars cover talent scouting, financing, and sustainable production practices. She advocates eliminating international barriers for filmmakers.
Antonio Fernández Coca is a Full Professor at the University of the Balearic Islands (UIB) in the Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, specializing in Architectural Graphic Expression. With a career spanning over three decades, he has pioneered transmedia educational strategies, integrating podcasts, YouTube channels, and MOOC courses like “A dibujar se aprende dibujando” to modernize architectural drawing pedagogy. His research focuses on the convergence of technology and creativity, particularly in user experience (UX), visual communication, and digital transformation in higher education. He has led projects such as “The speaking landscape” and “Genius - Up! Multimodal Educational Video Game” , while advocating for generational language adaptation and collaborative learning models. Doctorate in Computer Science (UIB, 2003) European Master of Arts in Image Synthesis and Computer Animation (Middlesex University, 1991) Licenciatura in Fine Arts (University of Seville, 1989) His academic output includes 15 recent publications analyzing transmedia education, digital platforms, and architectural visualization. Notable awards include the 2013 Universia/Santander Universities Award for OpenCourseWare (OCW) innovation. Current projects involve inter-university collaborations (e.g., with Universitat Rovira i Virgili) and developing digital tools for architectural drawing. His philosophy emphasizes “connecting, transforming, and inspiring” through technology-driven, student-centric methodologies.
