They Put the ‘Pro’ in Digital Media Production
They Put the ‘Pro’ in Digital Media Production
While the world’s most prominent filmmakers flock to the red carpet for events like The Academy Awards and The Golden Globes, students from the Department of Digital Media & Journalism (DMJ) recently got their own small taste of the bright lights—and for good reason.
The Broadcast Education Association (BEA) Festival of Media Arts recently announced the winners of its annual competition, which included three student teams from New Paltz majoring in digital media production, in categories such as short-form documentary and narrative.
“All three projects are unique, but what unites them is their storytelling,” said Department Chair Gregg Bray (DMJ). “Students truly brought their collective visions and energies to tell stories that resonate, whether it’s fiction or non-fiction. The films also adhered to professional standards—strong cinematography, editing, and graphic elements. The BEA had a record number of entries this year, and they only selected a small number of media to honor with accolades. Our students are in elite professional company.”
Bray recently accompanied the students to the Broadcast Education Association’s annual conference and festival in Las Vegas to be recognized for their outstanding achievements.
“They were shoulder-to-shoulder with people who are driving conversations in our media landscape,” said Bray. “The students should be very proud of their accomplishments.”
And the Winners Are (drumroll, please)…
Escape the Vape! – Student Documentary Award of Excellence
Produced by Gabriella Gagliano ’24, Matthew Walsh ’24, Carlin Feck ’24, Lindsay Feldherr ’24, and Stephen Jeong ’24, Escape the Vape! is a documentary chronicling two SUNY New Paltz students who attempt to quit nicotine for 30 days. Featuring interviewees from the Truth Campaign and New York State Legislature, the short film gives a telling look at the perils of addiction and the difficulties in breaking the nicotine habit.
Saving Sinterklass – Student Documentary Award of Excellence
Produced by Fiona Seabrook ’25, Maeve Degan ’24, and Tristan O’Regan ’24, Saving Sinterklaas provides an in-depth look at one of the Village of Rhinebeck, New York’s most cherished traditions, the annual Sinterklass Parade. Each year, the village transforms into a dazzling display and celebration of magic, joy, and community spirit. However, behind the scenes, the cherished tradition faces growing challenges, including stagnant funding and a shortage of volunteers. The short-doc shines a spotlight on the unyielding dedication and resilience of the Rhinebeck community as they fight to preserve the longstanding event.
“Having grown up in the area, I understand how much this event means to the community,” said Seabrook, who directed and produced the documentary. “It’s about more than just a parade, it’s about the people—the artists, volunteers, and neighbors—who make Rhinebeck so special. It’s an incredible honor to receive the BEA Award of Excellence for this film and to represent SUNY New Paltz on a national stage.”
Liberty – Student Narrative Award of Excellence
Produced by “Eden” Lena Burch ’26, Peter Cricchio ’25, Dan Labbato ’25, and Matthew Mingoia ’25, Liberty is a short-film psychological thriller, inspired by Contingency by Local58 TV, that takes place on Thanksgiving Day in 1986 when the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade is interrupted by an eerie government-issued emergency broadcast announcement. The film dives into what it means to live in an authoritarian country.
“This project has our hearts and souls poured into it,” said Burch. “My entire crew was absolutely incredible—Peter, Matthew, and Dan—and the amazing cast all made my vision come to life. We didn’t film anything with the intent of winning; we filmed what we felt audiences needed to see. This award means so much to our entire team, and we’re honored to receive such prestigious recognition from the BEA. This is only the beginning for us.”
Congratulations to all of the winners. Keep up the great work!