Asbury University School of Communication Arts Dean Dr. Jim Owens ’79 joined panelists on KET for a conversation about Kentucky’s film industry and opportunities for the next generation of media professionals.
Owens appeared on the Sept. 21 episode, “The Kentucky Film Industry,” hosted by Marvin Bartlett. The hour-long program brought together leaders from across Kentucky’s growing film and production landscape to discuss the industry’s development, workforce needs and future opportunities.
Asbury’s School of Communication Arts is making a contribution to building a quality film crew base in Kentucky."
“One of the areas that we are focusing on at Asbury is to help build a quality crew base in Kentucky. In the past, most of our film alumni moved out of the state due to a lack of film work. The growth of films shooting in Kentucky is beginning to provide the amount of work needed for alumni to stay in Kentucky.”
Joining Owens on the panel were Kentucky Film Office Executive Director Meg Fister, Bespoke Production Capital Managing Partner Justin Brown, Western Kentucky Film Commission Co-Commissioner Kristi Kilday and Wrigley Media Group COO David Cottingham.
As Dean of Asbury’s School of Communication Arts and professor of Media Communication, Owens brings more than 30 years of professional and teaching experience in television, film and video. His work has included productions for ESPN, ABC, NBC, CBS, Turner Sports and other major media organizations, as well as coverage of 15 Olympic Games.
Earlier this year, the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) inducted Owens into its prestigious Silver Circle, recognizing his lasting impact on the television industry and decades of excellence in broadcasting and media education.
Owens’ appearance highlighted the important connection between Kentucky’s expanding film industry and preparing students with the professional skills and hands-on experience needed to enter the field.
Asbury’s Media Communication students train with industry-standard equipment and gain practical experience alongside faculty with extensive professional backgrounds. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and opportunities that connect students with the rapidly changing media industry.
Owens’ participation in the statewide conversation reflects Asbury’s longstanding commitment to preparing students for professional work in film, television and media while contributing to the continued development of Kentucky’s creative industries.
Watch the full episode of Kentucky Tonight: The Kentucky Film Industry on KET.
The Asbury University School of Communication Arts offers Traditional Undergraduate programs in Communication, Media Communication, Multimedia Journalism, and Theatre and an Online Multimedia Design degree. Graduate programs include the M.A. in Communication; M.A. in Digital Storytelling; MFA in Film/TV Production; and MFA in Screenwriting. Learn more.
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