[ We invited Bethany graduates in Communication and Media Arts to report what they were up to, and respond to some questions about how they have used what they learned at Bethany and since. Please feel free to greet, ask questions, and comment. ]
When did you graduate from Bethany, what was your major, and in what, if anything, did you specialize while in school?
I graduated in 1995 while Bethany was a junior college. I received my BS in Mass Communications and Computer Information Science from Minnesota State University, Mankato in 2000. I received an MA in media studies from The New School in 2009 with a focus on media ethics and photography impacts.
What are you doing now with media/technology?
I’m the chief engineer for WBND, ABC57, in South Bend, Indiana. WBND is part of the Weigel Broadcasting Company.
Do you have any goals or aspirations beyond what you are doing now?
Yes, but I am blessed. My most rewarding work was teaching and inspiring young people in the media field. Since moving to South Bend, I have not found a way to serve Christian media. Yet, my ultimate goal is to spend time in God’s beautiful creation. I think a great way to introduce people to God’s power and grace is through His awesome creation.
Have you found any opportunities to use your skills and experience for Gospel outreach?
Before accepting the position of chief engineer for WBND, I worked for Weigel Broadcasting in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. I was able to assist Todd Hackbarth and Lakeside Lutheran High School in starting a weekly news program. That program celebrated the God-given talents and successes of Lakeside students. Unfortunately, I haven’t found a similar opportunity in South Bend.
Have you encountered any difficulty or hostility in your profession because you are a Christian?
Somewhat. While there has never been hostility, I feel I cannot express my Christian views without perhaps facing disciplinary action or correction. My job duties have required me to produce programming that is somewhat counter to my Christian faith. I’m pleased the company I work for is more balanced than many others, but media bias is present. A co-worker of mine feels she was let go because she would not participate in producing programming counter to her Christian beliefs.
Chris adds, for those who know them...
My family is well and blessed. Mom and Dad are good. I’m most thankful I am able to be with them more often.
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Discussion
What does 'chief engineer' mean (I'm not familiar with the "what's" or "how's" of video production). I didn't know that you studied at The New School! Were you out in NYC at that time? ("two ships passing...")
I received my masters degree at The New School. It was an excellent program. I focused on the social impacts of photography.
I'm proud to be working in the field again. Yet, it's difficult.
My time at Bethany was blessed. But Aaron, you made it great. God has a plan for all of us and I've spent much more time with family since I needed to leave Bethany. Yet, there is so much work to do. I'm frustrated at how current media covers issues. They pretend to be unbiased. They are not. I've seen it personally.
You mentioned that you do not feel free to express your Christian views in your profession. I was wondering, how do you handle producing programming which you disagree with? Also, does this affect your relations with coworkers who hold contrary views?