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Beyond the Portfolio: What Really Gets You Hired in Media
April 22 @ 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
Free – $15.00
Breaking into the media industry takes more than just technical skills and a strong portfolio—it’s the soft skills that set professionals apart. Join us for an engaging panel discussion where industry experts will share insights on the essential qualities that make media professionals successful, from communication and collaboration to adaptability and problem-solving.
Learn how to navigate creative teams, build strong professional relationships, and develop the confidence needed to thrive in an ever-evolving industry. Whether you’re a student preparing for your first job or a young professional looking to level up, this conversation will give you the tools to stand out and succeed.
Bring your questions, network with professionals, and gain valuable advice to help you make your mark in media!
Our Panelists:
Marlita Bevenue
Marlita Bevenue is the digital media strategist behind Marlita Media Solutions, where she helps underrepresented entrepreneurs in Madison and Milwaukee build impactful brands through social media, digital marketing, and strategic communications. A journalist with a passion for visual storytelling, she also serves as the Digital Content Strategist for UW-Madison’s College of Letters & Science.
Bringing her expertise to this panel, Marlita will share insights on the essential soft skills—adaptability, creativity, and strategic communication—that students and young professionals need to land a job and thrive in the media industry.
Tom Kermgard
Tom is the Managing Partner and Senior Executive Producer at Kingdom Filmworks, bringing over 20 years of experience in branded video content, directing, and production management. He has led multinational crews on large-scale productions and navigated fast-paced, run-and-gun shoots, giving him deep insight into the collaboration, adaptability, and problem-solving required in media production.
As a panelist, Tom will share his expertise on leading creative teams, balancing business objectives with storytelling, and the soft skills that drive success in the industry.
Stef Endres
Stef Endres is the owner and founder of Simply Food Styling, one of the Midwest’s leading food styling companies. With nearly two decades of experience in food styling, photography, and creative direction, she has built a thriving business working on commercial, editorial, and advertising projects. As a small business owner, she understands the importance of collaboration, adaptability, and relationship-building in a fast-paced industry.
As a panelist, Stef will share insights on entrepreneurship, navigating creative teams, and the soft skills that have helped her succeed in media production.
https://www.simplyfoodstyling.com/
Aubrey Fisher
Aubrey Fisher is a filmmaker and multimedia creative with a passion for videography, editing, and motion design. A recent graduate of Madison College, he now works at Evoke Agency, where he applies his storytelling skills to create dynamic and engaging content.
As a young professional, Aubrey understands firsthand the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and continuous learning in the media industry. His journey—from making snowboarding videos with a GoPro to crafting compelling visual stories—offers valuable insight for students and emerging creatives looking to turn their passion into a career.
Our Host: Carla Galler – Madison College
Tuesday, April 22, 2025
5:30 – 6:00 PM Networking/Appetizers & Beverages
6:00 – 6:10 PM Announcements & Introductions
6:10 – 7:30PM Panelist Discussions followed by an Audience Q&A
Location:
84 N Bryan St.
Madison, WI 53714
Pricing:
MMP Members Free (Register in advance)
Guests $15
Student Guests $5
($5 more at the door/be sure to register in advance)
