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Explore the campus at Charlotte, North Carolina
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Instructor since 2024
Filmmaking School
Andy teaches Cameras + Lighting at the Media Arts Center. It is the 2nd part of the Filmmaking Program. Andy has worked as a videographer and video editor in the news and documentary business for over 18-years. His mastery of film production and post production make an in demand videographer. Recently, Andy covered the Democratic National Convention.
Instructor since 2023
Filmmaking School
Cathy Beasley is a multifaceted professional based in Charlotte, North Carolina. She is known for her work as an actor, writer, director, and educator. Below is an overview of her roles and accomplishments:
Acting and Filmmaking
Cathy is an actor and filmmaker who graduated from The Media Arts Center’s first film class in Charlotte. Her short film, created as a class project, earned recognition with an award for Best Woman in Film 1.
She teaches scriptwriting at The Media Arts Center, sharing her expertise with aspiring filmmakers 1.
Cathy has also directed and written films under the banner of KitCatFilms, showcasing her creative talents in the industry 6.
Fitness Entrepreneurship
In addition to her work in film and education, Cathy is the founder of 4.8.12® Fitness, a virtual training program based in Charlotte. She has over 20 years of experience as a personal trainer 3.
Independent Filmmaking
Cathy continues to pursue her passion for filmmaking, recently completing her second short film, “Mary’s Choice,” which has been submitted to various film festivals.
Her diverse career highlights her dedication to both creative arts and fitness, making her a notable figure in Charlotte’s cultural and entrepreneurial landscape.
Instructor since 1996
Onsite School Director
John brings experience as an Emmy award-winning Miami news reporter and producer; where he’s covered major events – including the 1996 World Series of the Florida Marlins, seven major hurricanes, and the 2000 presidential debacle in Palm Beach County, Florida. John started at The Media Arts Center as a student in 1995, after dropping out of high school. He moved up from teacher’s assistant, to part-time broadcast journalism instructor, then campus director in 2006. He was promoted to Director of Operations in 2009, and became the Owner and President in 2023.
Instructor since 2024
Filmmaking School
Dan teaches Video Editing at the Media Arts Center. It’s the final part of the Filmmaking and broadcasting programs. Dan is an experienced editor and has taught Filmmaking related courses since 2012. He recently covered the Debate in Atlanta for CNN between Presidential Candidates Joe Biden and Donald Trump.
Instructor since 2019
Filmmaking School
Michael teaches the Screenwriting Course at the Media Arts Center It is the first part of the Filmmaking Program. In addition to being an award winning screenplay writer, Michael has helped students at The Media Arts Center’s Charlotte location win filmmaking awards through his instruction. He hosted the Best Screenplay Judge and was the Award Presenter at the 2024 Student Showcase of Films.
Instructor since 2012
Broadcasting School
Arroe Collins is a multifaceted media professional based in Charlotte, North Carolina, with a career spanning over four decades. He is a broadcaster, podcast host, writer, voice-over artist, and event DJ known for his engaging and creative approach to communication.
Career Highlights
Broadcasting and Podcasting: Arroe has been active in broadcasting since 1979 and currently hosts several podcasts, including Arroe Collins: Unplugged & Totally Uncut and The Daily Mess. His shows often feature interviews with prominent figures in entertainment, music, and literature, reflecting his passion for meaningful and thought-provoking conversations125.
Writing: He describes himself as a “daily writer” who captures everyday observations and insights through his work. His writing often explores themes of spirituality, self-improvement, and personal growth56.
Event Services: Alongside his wife Lee, Arroe runs LA Productions, offering DJ entertainment, event coordination, and officiating services for weddings and other celebrations. Their work is highly praised for its professionalism and attention to detail3.
Voice-Over Work: Arroe has also built a reputation as a skilled voice-over artist, contributing to various media projects over the years4.
Philosophy and Approach
Arroe emphasizes the importance of storytelling and creating authentic connections through media. He views broadcasting as an evolving art form that requires innovation and adaptability. His dedication to his craft is evident in his meticulous preparation for interviews and his commitment to fostering engaging conversations14.
Recognition
Arroe’s podcasts have attracted a significant audience, with Unplugged & Totally Uncut garnering widespread acclaim for its daily updates and diverse content. His ability to blend creativity with professionalism has made him a respected figure in both local and national media circles24.
In summary, Arroe Collins is a dynamic communicator whose work spans multiple platforms, from radio and podcasts to live events. His passion for storytelling and connecting with audiences continues to shape his enduring career.
Ed Gigante has served as Chairman of the TV/Radio and Film Department at Palm Beach County School District since August 1996, accumulating over 28 years of experience in educational leadership. During his tenure at Palm Beach Gardens High School, he has developed and overseen the department’s curriculum and programming.
Concurrently, Ed worked as Lead Television Instructor at Connecticut School of Broadcasting in West Palm Beach, Florida from August 1996 to June 2017, where he taught broadcasting fundamentals to aspiring media professionals for nearly 21 years.
With his extensive background in both secondary and professional education, Ed has dedicated his career to training the next generation of media and broadcasting talent.
Instructor since 2013
Filmmaking School
Valerie advises students on resumes and Demos at the Media Arts Center. Valerie has been a SAG-AFTRA member since 1992 and has been featured on-camera talent for various films, commercials, corporate videos and live stream events. Her clients include Bank of America, Discover Card, Safeway, Dick’s Sporting Goods, American Medical Association, Avon Products, Jim Shore, Real Health Superfoods, Allegacy, Ilio, Adult Dentistry of Ballantyne, MTV, PBS, and others. Valerie has been teaching at The Media Arts Center since 2016.
Instructor since 2024
Broadcasting School
Silke teaches Video Performance at the Media Arts Center. It’s the 3rd course Broadcasting program. Silke spent more than 20 years in the news business both producing, writing and anchoring newscasts (including here locally in Charlotte and for NBC News Channel).
Instructor since 2016
Broadcasting School
George teaches the Audio Performance course at the Media Arts Center. It’s the 2nd part of the Broadcasting Program. George is a 2016 graduate of The Media Arts Center. He has since done voice acting for large companies, including McDonald’s, Nike, Gatorade, Time Warner Cable, Mountain Dew ICE, ROOT Sports Northwest, and Lowe’s Home Improvement. He is the app voice for the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and is the voice of DC Universe Online’s Green Lantern, John Stewart.
Instructor since 2024
Filmmaking School
Rachael teaches Casting + Directing at the Media Arts Center. It’s the third part of the Filmmaking Program. Rachel is an entertainer, stuntwoman, and producer. She has appeared on MTV’s Ridiculousness, TUBI’s #shockfight, Marvel’s Black Panther, and the Emmy-nominated VR experience by Meta, Goliath: Playing With Reality. Currently, she hosts HealthLine Media’s Inside Schizophrenia podcast, which has been repeatedly ranked as one of the top podcasts in the world about schizophrenia.
By clicking the button below, you’ll be sent to the payment screen to complete your $25 registration fee.
After succesful registration, the next step is setting up your student profile. You’ll receive further instructions after payment via email.
By clicking the button below, you’ll be sent to the payment screen to complete your $25 registration process.
After succesful registration, the next step is setting up your student profile. You’ll receive further instructions after payment via email.
By clicking the button below, you’ll be sent to the payment screen to complete your $25 registration process.
After succesful registration, the next step is setting up your student profile. You’ll receive further instructions after payment via email.
By clicking the button below, you’ll be sent to the payment screen to complete your $25 registration process.
After succesful registration, the next step is setting up your student profile. You’ll receive further instructions after payment via email.
By clicking the button below, you’ll be sent to the payment screen to complete your $25 registration process.
After succesful registration, the next step is setting up your student profile. You’ll receive further instructions after payment via email.
By clicking the button below, you’ll be sent to the payment screen to complete your $25 registration process.
After succesful registration, the next step is setting up your student profile. You’ll receive further instructions after payment via email.
By clicking the button below, you’ll be sent to the payment screen to complete your $25 registration process.
After succesful registration, the next step is setting up your student profile. You’ll receive further instructions after payment via email.
By clicking the button below, you’ll be sent to the payment screen to complete your $25 registration process.
After succesful registration, the next step is setting up your student profile. You’ll receive further instructions after payment via email.
