From Classroom to Mainstage:
FTC Students Take Charge at the Great South Bay Music Festival

For the fourth consecutive year, Â鶹ӰԺ students aren’t just attending the —they’re running the show! As part of Long Island’s largest and longest-running music and arts festival, FTC students step into professional industry roles—mixing live sound, managing stage crews, coordinating with artists, and overseeing production from start to finish. This is not a classroom exercise—it’s a live, high-pressure event enjoyed by thousands of festivalgoers.

Opportunities like this are rare, but at FTC, they’re part of the student experience.

FTC Students at Work: Real Roles Behind the Scenes

At the festival, students from multiple FTC programs come together to bring the event to life. Mass Communication students specializing in Live Entertainment Music Production, Audio Recording Technology, and Broadcasting handle everything from live sound engineering and stage management to artist relations and on-site broadcasting. Meanwhile, Film and Television majors capture behind-the-scenes footage, film live performances, and interview artists for festival coverage.

From setup to showtime, students manage every detail—running the stage, recording performances, producing content, and sharing the experience in real time. Additionally, each magical moment of the four-day event is broadcasted LIVE on the , where student conduct real-time interviews with a wide range of artists, band members, vendors, producers, and other key participants who bring this event to life. This all happens in real-time at the GSB venue. It’s a comprehensive, hands-on production experience at one of Long Island’s biggest live events.

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The images above were taken at the 2024 Great South Bay Music Festival. Click to enlarge.

Experience That Matters: Turning Learning Into Career Opportunities

Working the Great South Bay Music Festival is more than a weekend project—it’s a chance for FTC students to apply their skills in a demanding, real-world environment. Whether working the mixing board, running lights, coordinating artists, keeping the stage on schedule, or producing interviews, students gain practical experience that extends far beyond the classroom.

Tom Calandrillo, Chair of the Communication Division and Assistant Dean of Institutional Productions, who leads this major project, sums it up: “This festival experience is a game-changer for our students. It’s not just about technical skills—it’s about understanding how to work as a team, solve problems on the fly, and communicate effectively in a live event setting. No other college in the region offers this kind of hands-on, industry-level opportunity. It’s a real-world lab where our students build confidence, develop professional relationships, and prepare themselves for careers in media and entertainment.�

The Show Goes On – Even After the Party’s Over

The experience doesn’t end when the final set wraps up. Students in Broadcasting and Journalism continue their work by contributing festival coverage for , the Mass Communication Division’s digital news platform. They create articles, video segments, and social media content that capture every angle—from performances to behind-the-scenes stories.

Beyond the event itself, many artists and industry professionals who participate in the festival maintain ongoing relationships with Â鶹ӰԺ. They frequently return to campus for guest lectures, workshops, and Q&A sessions. These connections often lead to mentorships and career opportunities, creating a vibrant network that extends well beyond the festival grounds.

This combination of hands-on experience and ongoing industry engagement not only strengthens students’ professional portfolios but also provides a clear path toward careers in media, entertainment, audio production, broadcasting, and event management.

For prospective students considering Â鶹ӰԺ, this festival involvement exemplifies how FTC integrates real-world opportunities into its academic programs—preparing students for meaningful careers after graduation.

The Great South Bay Music Festival takes place July 24–27 at Shorefront Park in Patchogue, NY. If you’re ready to turn your passion for music, media, and entertainment into hands-on experience, FTC offers the chance to work behind the scenes at major events like this—and launch your career while you learn.

Request more information today and see how Â鶹ӰԺ can help you make your mark in the industry.

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Â鶹ӰԺ proudly announces its outstanding performance by the Mass Communication Division at the 2025 Press Club of Long Island (PCLI) Media Awards Dinner, held on June 5 at Fox Hollow in Woodbury, NY. Representing the college at this distinguished event were faculty members Professor and Department Chair Holli Haerr and Professor Brigette Boyle, and students Jeff Kramer, Fernando Gomez, and Daniel Garcia.

Competing among peer colleges and universities across Long Island and alongside leading professional news outlets, Â鶹ӰԺ students received top honors in two of the event’s most competitive categories:

Best College TV Broadcast (1st Place) was awarded to , produced in Prof. Haerr’s advanced broadcast classes. The program, which aired on , featured a dynamic team of student journalists, including Daniel Garcia (producer), Jeff Kramer, Fernando Gomez, Stephen Cooney, Tyler McCready, Alexis Mack, Jena Chambers, Thomas DiSalvo, Madelyn Llanes, Sydney Mountain, Jose Rojas, Aaron Jones, Winter Petracca, and Anthony Deus.

• Best College TV Reporter (1st Place) went to senior Daniel Garcia, who earned the top honor for the second consecutive year. His compelling storytelling and on-camera reporting, including pieces like , continue to set a high standard in student journalism.

“I am extremely proud of our students for their wins in these two categories. I think it really shows the quality of work our Â鶹ӰԺ Mass Communication students can do,” said Prof. Holli Haerr, Chair of the Mass Communication Department at Â鶹ӰԺ. “This is the first year we’ve done serious election coverage, including Promote the Vote and our first ever live coverage on election night. Students Daniel Garcia and Jeff Kramer were interested in informing students about the issues, and I think it was great experience for all the students who worked on those projects.Ìý I’m thankful for them for their leadership on this. I’m also excited that Daniel has won best college TV reporter for a second year in a row. His hard work and dedication have really paid off and can hopefully inspire other students as well.”

The Press Club of Long Island, a chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists founded in 1974, is dedicated to protecting First Amendment rights, promoting ethical journalism, and fostering excellence in reporting across Long Island.

Â鶹ӰԺ is honored to be recognized by such a respected organization and applauds its students and faculty for their creativity, commitment, and professional growth.

Explore Â鶹ӰԺ’s Mass Communication Degree programs and Request Information now.

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On April 25, 2025, the Performing Arts Center at Â鶹ӰԺ came alive with excitement and pride as students, faculty, families, and friends gathered for The Luminaries—15th Annual Awards Ceremony. This signature event capped off two nights of student film screenings and a year of creative achievement across the Film and Television, Mass Communication, and Interactive Media Arts departments.

An Expanded Vision for The Luminaries Festival

What began as a showcase exclusive to the Film and Television major has now evolved into a division-wide celebration. For the first time, the annual Awards Ceremony reflected the full scope of the Communication Division. This expansion was made possible by a recent curricular alignment that brought together three formerly independent programs—Film and Television, Mass Communication, and Interactive Media Arts—into one collaborative, forward-thinking department.

Recognizing Student Excellence Across Media Disciplines

The awards honored outstanding work in a wide array of categories, some of which included:

• The Sol Negrin Award for Best Cinematography
• Best Film(s) – Awarded for Freshman/Sophomore, Junior, and Senior Artists
• Audience Choice Awards for Film and Interactive Media Arts
• Best Photography, 2D Visual Art, Animation and Motion Graphics
• Distinguished Service Awards

Each award reflected the creativity, technical skill, and storytelling power of Â鶹ӰԺ students, whose work continues to push the boundaries of visual and media arts.

More Than Just an Awards Show

Hosted by the dynamic duo of Theatre Arts students Egypt Dozier and Symone Hammond, the 15th Annual Awards Ceremony delivered more than accolades. Audiences enjoyed skits, bumper reels, creative video presentations, and behind-the-scenes moments that made the night unforgettable.

A Multimedia Event, Powered by FTC Students

While the spotlight was on stage, the rest of the Mass Communication Division was hard at work bringing The Luminaries to wider audiences. Students and faculty produced a professional-grade live stream of the event, conducted red carpet interviews, and hosted radio coverage from the scene—all made possible by the industry-standard production studios that give Â鶹ӰԺ graduates a competitive edge in today’s media landscape.

A Team Effort: The People Behind the Production

This unforgettable evening was made possible by a dedicated team of producers: Colin Hickey, Alex Gaza, Nicole Monteleone, and student producers Maddie Llanes, Jiselle Carlo, Dan Davis, Ryan McClelland, Daniel Garcia, and Joey Cicchelli.

Faculty mentors Michael Peters, Oliver Roach, and Michael Kaufmann provided guidance throughout the planning and production process, while Russel Roxbury and Michael Cavalli offered essential operational support through Facilities and Student Life.

Division Leadership and College Administration Support

This year’s expanded vision was fueled by thoughtful leadership and coordination. Special thanks go to:

• Colin Hickey, Interim Chair of Film and Television
• Holli Haerr, Chair of Mass Communication
• Sharon Reba-Pertz, Chair of Interactive Media Arts
• Tom Calandrillo, Chair of the Communication Division and Assistant Dean of Institutional Productions and Technology

The continued support of College President Dr. David Cohen and Vice President Dr. Janet Kaplan helped ensure that The Luminaries remains a cornerstone event that celebrates student success and innovation.

A Final Creative Touch

The visual identity of The Luminaries 15th Annual Awards Ceremony was brought to life by student designers Luke Spinosa (poster) and Isabella Romeo (event pamphlet), whose creative direction added a professional and polished look to this already standout celebration.

As Â鶹ӰԺ continues to nurture a thriving community of storytellers, media-makers, and creative leaders, The Luminaries stands as a shining example of what’s possible when passion meets purpose—and when every corner of a division comes together to tell one extraordinary story.

The post The Luminaries 15th Annual Awards Ceremony Lights Up Â鶹ӰԺ appeared first on Â鶹ӰԺ.

The Â鶹ӰԺ Theatre Arts Division proudly presents its annual Senior Showcase on Monday, April 28, at Ripley-Grier Studios in New York City. This highly anticipated event marks a pivotal milestone in the careers of FTC Theatre Arts students, offering them the opportunity to perform before talent agents, casting directors, and industry professionals as they prepare to enter the world of professional theatre.

A Year-Long Journey to the Stage

The Senior Showcase is the culmination of a rigorous, year-long exploration in two core courses designed to refine students’ skills in acting, dance, design, and audition techniques. Graduating seniors present scenes, monologues, dance performances, and digital portfolios, demonstrating their readiness for the performing arts industry. This final performance allows them to hone their craft one last time before stepping into their professional careers.

About Theatre Arts at Â鶹ӰԺ

The Theatre Arts Division at Â鶹ӰԺ offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in Theatre Arts with three program concentrations:

• Acting – Built on the principles of the Stanislavski System, this program develops actors’ confidence and skills for both stage and screen performances.
• Musical Theatre – A comprehensive “triple-threat” curriculum emphasizing acting, dance, and singing, with an unmatched requirement of 19 dance classes, making our graduates among the most versatile in the industry.
• Theatrical Design and Technology – Students specialize in set design, lighting, costume design, stage management, and technical direction, gaining hands-on experience in all aspects of production.

The Culmination of Their Efforts – The Senior Showcase

FTC Theatre Arts students undergo an intense conservatory curriculum, performing in up to six productions per year while refining their professional portfolios. The Senior Showcase serves as their final step in preparing for the industry, where they demonstrate their skills before key decision-makers in theatre, film, and television.

In previous years, the Senior Showcase has seen remarkable success, attracting more than three dozen agents and casting directors eager to scout new talent. This event has a proven track record, with nearly 50% of participating students securing agency representation or project opportunities shortly after their showcase performance.

This year, six talented seniors will take the stage:

• Gabby Arvelo
• Lillian Daley
• Sabrina Daysie
• Egypt Dozier
• Yolanda Penfield
• Paul Schiller

Each of these performers has dedicated countless hours to perfecting their craft, and we are thrilled to see them shine.

To learn more about this year’s graduating performers, visit the Senior Showcase website and read their biographies [HERE].

For information, photographs and recordings of past productions, visit our Performing Arts Center (PAC) page [HERE].

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We’ve got big news to share! Â鶹ӰԺ has been recognized as one of the nation’s best in inTune Magazine’s 2025 Best Music Schools special edition!

This cements our place among the nation’s top institutions to study music-whether it be for music teacher education, performance, music business, or any other traditional or innovative music related programs. This honor highlights our dedication to preparing students for vibrant, successful careers in the creative and performing arts industries.

Music Education for the Modern World

In the article, author Dr. David Fish explores how music schools across the country are evolving to meet the demands of a competitive, ever-changing industry. No longer limited to traditional training, these institutions are embracing career-focused approaches that blend technical instruction with real-world skills.

At Â鶹ӰԺ, we’re proud to be at the forefront of this movement. Our Audio Recording Technology and Music programs stood out for their innovative integration of creative and business skills—a combination that has become essential for today’s music professionals.

“Our programs strike a balance between intensive technical instruction and real-world preparation by combining rigorous academics, performance opportunities, and hands-on industry experience,� said John Machado, Chair of the Audio Recording Technology Program.

A Curriculum Built for Success

What sets Â鶹ӰԺ apart? Â鶹ӰԺ provides a very student-centered and personal approach to education. Students are prepared for every aspect of their future careers. From foundational courses in music theory, management, marketing, social media, entertainment, and business law to hands-on training in our professional facilities, we ensure that students graduate with the insight and skills they need to thrive.

Internship opportunities play a significant role as well. These experiences allow students to connect classroom learning with practical, real-world applications, making them career-ready from day one.

A Community That Inspires Creativity

Beyond academics, Â鶹ӰԺ fosters a vibrant creative community where students can explore their passions and collaborate across disciplines. Music Division Chair Kristi Adams shared what makes this environment so special:

“We offer student-led extracurricular programs that prepare students for future careers. Whether collaborating with film students to score a soundtrack, operating a soundboard for a theatre production, or performing at open mic events, students thrive in a dynamic creative community.�

Professor Adams also emphasized the College’s evolution: “While Â鶹ӰԺ was once known as a ‘music school,’ it has grown into a diverse institution where strong business and music roots continue to shape a culture of artistic and professional growth.â€�

National Recognition in the 2025 Best Music Schools

Being featured in inTune Magazine’s Best Music Schools of 2025 is a proud moment for Â鶹ӰԺ. This recognition places us alongside other top-tier institutions across the country, showcasing our innovative programs and dedication to student success.

Read the full article on

Discover What Â鶹ӰԺ Can Do for You

For over 50 years, Â鶹ӰԺ has been a hub for creative students ready to turn their passions into professions. Located in Long Island, we offer hands-on learning, personalized guidance, and a collaborative community to help you achieve your dreams.

Are you ready to take the next step in your journey? or contact us today for more information!

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For another successful year, Â鶹ӰԺ presented the —the only event of its kind that connects emerging media artists with leading industry professionals!

For decades, Â鶹ӰԺ has hosted this transformative event, recognizing the power of mentorship and professional exposure in shaping the next generation of creative talent. The LIMAS is more than just an inspiring launchpad—it’s a bridge between passion and profession, showing students that their artistic abilities can lead to dynamic, rewarding careers in media and digital arts. Thank you to the high school educators and students who attended!

Click to Enlarge Images

What is the Long Island Media Arts Show?

With roots dating back to the 1970s in the Office of the New York State Summer School for the Arts, LIMAS was created to identify and nurture artistically talented students. Over the years, it moved between several locations, all while staying true to its mission of inspiring and empowering young artists. In 1985, LIMAS found its permanent home at Â鶹ӰԺ.

What began as a juried art and film showcase for high school students in Nassau and Suffolk counties, LIMAS has since evolved into a large-scale conference and exhibition, drawing over 400 students to celebrate digital art and innovation. While still featuring its signature juried exhibition and film festival, the event has expanded to include hands-on workshops and educational seminars led by top industry professionals, solidifying its reputation as a premier platform for education, creativity, and artistic excellence.

High School Artists at the Heart of LIMAS Mission

At the heart of LIMAS is the Long Island High School Media Arts Competition in which the region’s most talented young student artists showcase their work in Film and Motion Graphics, 2D Design, Photography, Animation and other digital art forms. Competing for prestigious awards and scholarships, these students gain valuable exposure and recognition.

This year, nearly 300 submissions were shared from artists from over 20 of the region’s high schools. Of these submissions, nine were selected by a panel of professional artist judges to take the prize.

This year’s LIMAS award winners include:

• Best In Show: Still Image: Mother in Memory by Jerry Wang from Great Neck South High School
• Best in Show: Motion Art: Resonant Harmony Trailer by Nicholas Miceli from Long Island High School for the Arts
• Excellence in 2D Art: Representational: Girl in the Mirror by Melody Mattia from Commack High School
• Excellence in 2D Art: Abstract: Bleeding Fluorescence by Kathleen Yun from Northport High School
• Excellent in Photography: Key to the City by Mila K. Yurter from Oyster Bay High School
• Excellence in Animation: Theft and Bakery by Benjamin Krieger from Patchogue Medford High School
• Excellence in Film: Alternative: Père somnambule absurde by Alex Daniel Benkov from Bixhorn Technical Center
• Best Film (Non-Fiction): Hallway Etiquette PSA by Ethan Engelson and Jake Haft from Long Beach High School
• Excellence in Film: Narrative: Vices by Stephen Mark Lundberg from Sachem North High School

In addition to the excellent student artists, the award for Outstanding Media Arts School for the 2025 LIMAS went to Long Beach High School. Congratulations to all the award recipients!

For additional information about Â鶹ӰԺ and to explore our academic programs, click HERE.

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At Â鶹ӰԺ, Women’s History Month is a time to celebrate and elevate the voices of women in the entertainment industry. For the third consecutive year, students from the FTC Business Club took the lead in organizing the annual Women in Entertainment Panel—a dynamic and inspiring event that brings together accomplished women in a male-dominated field to share their experiences, challenges, and insights.

Women in Entertainment: Inspiring the Next Generation

This year’s panel featured four distinguished women, each excelling in different sectors of the entertainment industry:

• Starr Fuentes – Multimedia Journalist at Newsday, educator in Media Arts in Brooklyn, and a proud Â鶹ӰԺ alum.
• Amanda Carey – Assistant Producer at JVC Broadcasting, part-time on-air personality for Party 105, and FTC alum.
• Jillian Weston – Owner and founder of Jillian’s Circus, an online marketing agency, and President of the Social Media Association.
• Vanessa Silberman – Singer, songwriter, producer, engineer, mixer at Label A&R, and owner of Diamond Heart Productions.

Moderated by FTC Business Club Co-Presidents Isabella Green and Sydney Festa, the discussion delved into the realities of being a woman in entertainment. The panelists shared invaluable advice on overcoming obstacles, supporting fellow women in the industry, and staying motivated to achieve success in an ever evolving and competitive landscape.

Success in Business Begins at Â鶹ӰԺ

From Left: Isabella Green, Sydney Festa, Starr Fuentes, Amanda Carey, Jillian Weston, and Vanessa Silberman

Panels like these are a testament to the hands-on learning experience at Â鶹ӰԺ. Business students gain real-world exposure by interacting with industry leaders, expanding their networks, and even securing professional opportunities—such as Sydney Festa’s internship with Diamond Heart Productions and Vanessa Silberman, showcasing how these events directly contribute to student career success.

These opportunities would not be possible without the dedication and expertise of the talented women on the FTC faculty. Donna LaTorre, Chair of the Business Division, and Professor Anne Brown, who actively support the FTC Business Club, play instrumental roles in mentoring students and foster their professional development. Their guidance empowers students to take initiative and gain real-world experience in business and entertainment.

The Business Division at FTC offers robust programs tailored for future industry leaders. Students can pursue a Bachelor of Business Administration in Business Management with concentrations in Marketing, Music Entertainment Industry Studies (MEIS), Audio Recording Technology, and Business Management. These programs equip students with the tools and expertise to thrive in the entertainment and business sectors.

The FTC Business Club: Hands-On Learning in Action

The FTC Business Club is a dynamic platform where students put their education into practice. Organizing the Women in Entertainment Panel requires meticulous planning—securing speakers, crafting thought-provoking interview questions, coordinating event logistics, and working alongside the Mass Communication Division to ensure professional recording and coverage via The Record Online, FTC’s digital news outlet.

These real-world experiences provide invaluable event management skills, preparing students for leadership roles after graduation. As our co-hosts and club presidents gear up to transition from college to career, they do so armed with practical knowledge, confidence, and a strong professional network.

Collaboration with the Mass Communication Division

Events of this scale are made possible through collaboration with the Mass Communication Division. Held in Studio 400, FTC’s professional television and broadcast studio, the panel was flawlessly executed thanks to a dedicated student production team handling recording, staging, editing, and technical operations with precision and professionalism.

This exceptional collaboration is overseen by Dean of Institutional Technology and Production/Chair of the Communication Division, Thomas Calandrillo and Professor Holli Haerr, Chair of the Mass Communication Department, whose expertise ensures a seamless production process. Additionally, Professor Brigitte ÌýBoyle, head of and the Radio Station, plays a critical role in providing students with platforms to showcase their work and gain hands-on media experience. Under the leadership of these phenomenal women, FTC students are equipped with the skills and confidence to excel in the media and entertainment industries.

To watch the full panel and learn more about the production team,

Build Your Future at Â鶹ӰԺ

Students eager to participate in impactful events like the Women in Entertainment Panel can explore the diverse undergraduate programs at FTC. The Mass Communication Department Ìýoffers concentrations in Broadcasting, Audio Recording Technology, Live Entertainment & Media Production, and Journalism, providing students with the skills to excel in media and entertainment.

At Â鶹ӰԺ, students »å´Ç²Ô’t just learn about the industry—they experience it firsthand. Through hands-on projects, professional networking, and real-world application, FTC continues to shape the next generation of industry leaders.

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Exciting things are happening at Â鶹ӰԺ Sound Athletics! With new leadership, expanded opportunities, and a fresh digital presence, our teams are ready to make waves. From the return of volleyball to the continued rise of our esports program, there’s never been a better time to be part of The Sound.

The Â鶹ӰԺ Sound Athletic Department is a proud member of the and a full competitor in the s and the . Our teams battle it out in men’s and women’s basketball, soccer, and esports, and now, with the revival of volleyball, we’re ready to bring even more energy to the court.

In this article, we’ll dive into all the latest updates, including the launch of our brand-new athletics website, the return of volleyball under an experienced new coach, and the growth of our esports program. Get ready to explore the exciting future of FTC Sound Athletics!

The Sound Gets a New Look

Big things are happening for Sound Athletics! We’re thrilled to announce the launch of our brand-new web platform: This fresh and dynamic website is your go-to source for the latest news, schedules, scores, and all things FTC Athletics. Whether you’re a player, fan, or future Sound athlete, be sure to check it out!

The Sound Welcomes New Talent

We’re making waves with the return of volleyball to Â鶹ӰԺ! After a hiatus since the 2021-2022 season, men’s and women’s volleyball will . Leading the charge is newly appointed Head Coach Matt Toner.

Interim Athletic Director Jason Fiscina is equally excited, stating, “Matt Toner comes to Five Towns with a strong resume. His teaching background makes him the ideal candidate to revive the volleyball program at Five Town Colleges. I am excited for him to build both the men’s and women’s volleyball programs.�

With his experience, leadership, and passion for the game, Coach Toner is ready to bring high energy and success to Sound Athletics!

Esports is Growing at FTC

Since launching in 2021, Â鶹ӰԺ Esports has steadily grown into a competitive program under the leadership of . The team competes in the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC), where students have the opportunity to play games such as Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, Fortnite, Valorant, and Rocket League against collegiate teams from across the region.

Coach Leider has worked to foster a collaborative environment where students develop skills in teamwork, communication, and strategy. The esports program welcomes players of all experience levels, whether they are looking to compete or simply improve their skills while engaging with a community of fellow gamers. The team has had a strong start this season, earning notable victories and continuing to develop as a presence in the collegiate gaming scene.

Beyond competition, esports at FTC is connected to broader career paths in gaming, media, and technology. Students from majors such as Business, Film, Mass Communication, Interactive Media Arts, Music, and Theatre often explore how their skills intersect with the growing gaming industry.

For those interested in following the team’s progress, matches are streamed on Twitch, and highlights, strategies, and behind-the-scenes content can be found on the Â鶹ӰԺ Esports YouTube channel.

Don’t Miss a Game!

Want to keep up with all the action? Be sure to visit for game schedules, player updates, and live coverage of Sound Athletics. Whether courtside or online, we can’t wait to see you cheering for The Sound!

Go Sound!

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The Â鶹ӰԺ Mass Communication program has elevated its technology, its faculty, and its curriculum. The , the internet-based radio station that is at the core of its program, just launched The Kras Hour, a brand-new theatre podcast. Hosted by Theatre Arts Division Chair Dr. David Krasner, this podcast is an exciting addition to the lineup and a testament to the creativity and talent that thrives here.Ìý

In this article, we’ll explore how our Mass Communication program offers students and faculty opportunities in front of and behind the scenes. Via the , our community benefits from hands-on learning experiences by operating the technology, being engaged in the recording process, to creating content that showcases the expertise of our faculty and more. The Kras Hour does just this! Not only will listeners hear the forward-thinking and dynamic education provided to our Theatre Arts students but they will understand more about the FTC Mass Communication program and what a small college campus provides.Ìý

We invite you to stream on demand via and explore the diverse range of shows, podcasts, and broadcasts produced by our talented students. °Õ³ó±ð°ù±ð’s something for everyone at FTC Sound Stream—»å´Ç²Ô’t miss out!Ìý

The FTC Sound StreamÌýÌý

Broadcasting seven days a week from the state-of-the-art “Gene Free Studiosâ€� on the Â鶹ӰԺ campus, FTC Sound Stream is more than just a radio station—it’s a hands-on training ground and classroom for students eager to gain real-world experience. This dynamic platform is an integral part of the Mass Communication program. When students earn their Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree here, they dive into professional radio broadcasting, using industry-standard technology under the guidance of our experienced Studio Managers Andre Doughty and Jodi Vale-Amato.Ìý

The FTC Sound Stream offers an unparalleled opportunity for students to build technical skills, develop their creativity, and prepare for careers in broadcasting, media production, collaboration with others, and beyond—all while still on campus.Ìý

Whether you’re in the mood for music, sports, news, or talk radio, FTC Sound Stream has something for everyone. Located at the hub of the Main building and integral to The John Lennon Center for Music and Technology, it fills the hallways with vibrant programming that keeps the campus connected and energized.Ìý

New Theatre Podcast Takes Center StageÌý

FTC Sound Stream proudly presents The Kras Hour, a brand-new theatre podcast that shines a spotlight on one of Â鶹ӰԺ’s signature programs. Hosted by Theatre Arts Chair Dr. David Krasner, this exciting series dives into the world of acting, dance, drama, and musical theatre, offering listeners an insider’s perspective on the College’s innovative theatre arts curriculum.Ìý

In the inaugural episode, Dr. Krasner provides an in-depth look at the conservatory-style Bachelor of Fine Arts program in Theatre Arts. He discusses program highlights, including the acting concentration, which prepares students for careers in stage, screen, and voiceover, and the musical theatre concentration, which hones the skills of aspiring “triple threatsâ€� who can captivate audiences with acting, singing, and dance. Krasner emphasizes the program’s career-focused approach, encouraging students to pursue acting opportunities while in college and take leading roles in the college’s fully mounted productions—starting as early as their freshman year.Ìý

Related: Ìý

Future episodes of The Kras Hour promise to explore a wide range of topics, from the vibrant Musical Theatre program at FTC to interviews with key faculty, discussions on foundational techniques, and behind-the-scenes looks at upcoming productions.Ìý

Don’t miss an episode—download the FTC APP or the FTC Sound Stream App from the or to stay connected and check the for updates on new and exciting episodes! And follow on Instagram!Ìý

Join FTC Sound StreamÌý

The FTC Sound Stream is hoping that Â鶹ӰԺ students of all majors and levels want to learn and grow as a broadcaster, producer or media manager. Click to get involved!Ìý

Have you always dreamed of hosting your own radio show? Are you a musician who wants to share your craft with a broader audience? Perhaps you belong to a club, sports team or are involved with a special project you wish to share with the FTC Community… FTC Sound Stream wants to hear from YOU!Ìý

Contact: ftcsoundstream@ftc.edu
Learn more about the Mass Communications Division
Follow on Instagram

Ìý

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Students from Â鶹ӰԺ’s Interactive Media Arts program recently embarked on a truly “out of this worldâ€� experience, showcasing the power of hands-on learning in an interactive media setting. For the second year, seniors in the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interactive Media Arts program collaborated with the , creating professional-grade media assets for the planetarium’s captivating productions.

In this article, we’ll explore the incredible hands-on learning opportunities this partnership provides, the scope of the senior projects, and the innovative Interactive Media Arts program at Â鶹ӰԺ. Don’t forget to check out the accompanying video interview and student presentations to see the remarkable work of our talented IMA students in action.

The Power of Professional Partnerships

At Â鶹ӰԺ, the focus isn’t just on teaching—it’s on doing. The goal is to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience they need to thrive in their chosen careers. While the curriculum brings real-world scenarios into the classroom, there’s nothing quite like stepping into a professional setting to put those skills to the test.

The collaboration with the Reichert Planetarium builds on a history of successful partnerships, including projects with Island Harvest, the American Heart Association, and the American Giving Project/Toys of Hope. These partnerships offer students invaluable real-world experiences while delivering professional-grade results to clients.

In this latest project, teams of students worked directly with Planetarium Director David Bush to create artwork for existing and future planetarium programs. The artwork ranged from 3D models of exoplanets, microbes, and the SLS rocket in its various stages, to 2D panorama illustrations of iconic structures from ancient China, Greece, and Egypt, as well as modern Long Island landmarks. Each student was assigned a specific project goal, conducted extensive research, refined their work to meet the planetarium’s needs, and ultimately presented their final assets in stunning, full-color displays on the planetarium’s 60-foot dome.

Professor Julie Haring of Â鶹ӰԺ provided technical, conceptual, and design guidance to help students meet the demands of their final presentations. However, students were expected to stay on track with a strategic schedule, meet deadlines, and deliver results that aligned with their “clients’â€� goals, mirroring the expectations of a real-world professional environment.

“Our partnership with the Vanderbilt Planetarium provides an invaluable experience for our students to stretch their creative wings beyond the average computer graphics course into the exciting world of large-scale 2D and 3D asset creation for a real-world client,� says Professor Haring. “Collaborating with Planetarium Director Dave Bush gives our students the opportunity to grow creatively and professionally.�

The museum setting, which includes the planetarium, also offers unique alignment with students’ career aspirations, particularly in areas such as illustration, 3D modeling, layout, and graphic design. This partnership not only enhances students’ portfolios but also prepares them for careers where these specialized skills are in high demand.

An Experiential Approach to Hands-On Learning

The collaboration with the Reichert Planetarium is an exciting capstone experience for students pursuing a degree in Interactive Media Arts at Â鶹ӰԺ. However, this hands-on, real-world approach to learning is woven throughout the entire curriculum, which emphasizes user-centered design and project-based learning.

Interactive Media Arts is a broad and dynamic field, offering opportunities for students passionate about visual arts to refine their craft in areas such as 2D and 3D design, motion graphics, coding, and even game design. With innovation at the heart of the program, graduates leave with a robust portfolio and demo reels that highlight their unique talents and creativity.

Students also benefit from comprehensive career coaching at every stage of their education. They tackle real-world projects in the classroom using industry-standard software, learn from experienced professionals in their field, and participate in experiential learning—like the Reichert Planetarium project—that prepare them for the professional world. By the time they graduate, students are equipped with the skills, experience, and confidence to succeed in their chosen careers.

Learn more about Interactive Media Arts at Â鶹ӰԺ

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