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Confer Media Academy Reimagines Longstanding Program for the Next Generation of Media Professionals

BLOOMSBURG, PA (09/22/2026) — A new generation of media professionals will have an opportunity to explore the rapidly evolving world of media and communications through the inaugural Confer Media Academy, a reimagined version of the longstanding Confer Radio Talent Institute at Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg.

The Confer Media Academy, a reimagining of the Confer Radio Talent Institute established at Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg in 2013, will introduce students to the expanding range of careers available in today's media industry. The four-day program will be held Oct. 3, Oct. 31, Nov. 14 and Dec. 5.

Originally created through a gift from legendary broadcaster and Pennsylvania Radio Hall of Fame inductee Kerby Confer, the Radio Talent Institute connected students with broadcast professionals and provided hands-on experience in radio. As the media industry has evolved, so has the program.

The Confer Media Academy will expand that focus to include podcasting, video production, social media, radio, broadcasting, digital content, live production, and other emerging areas of media. Students will work on real-world projects, develop professional portfolios, and connect with media professionals while exploring potential career paths.

"Media is no longer confined to a microphone or a television studio," said Dr. David Magolis, director of the Confer Media Academy. "Today's students have an incredible range of opportunities to tell stories and build audiences. We want to help them explore those possibilities while gaining the hands-on experience and professional connections that can help launch their careers."

The Academy also offers Commonwealth University-Bloomsburg an opportunity to introduce prospective students-including high school students from throughout the region-to the campus and the possibilities available through its media and journalism programs.

At the center of the experience will be the Kerby Confer Media Center, a state-of-the-art facility that provides students with professional-quality spaces and technology for radio, television, video, podcasts, live streaming, and other forms of media production.

Confer's commitment to media education at Bloomsburg has grown significantly since the original Radio Talent Institute was established. His $5.3 million gift in 2022 created the Kerby Confer Media Center and established scholarships for students interested in media and journalism. Including that gift and his additional support for scholarships, faculty, equipment, and the University's student radio station, Confer has contributed more than $6.1 million to Bloomsburg.

The evolution of the program is another way to carry forward Confer's vision of creating meaningful opportunities for students.

"Kerby Confer understands the value of giving students the opportunity to learn from professionals and gain hands-on experience," said Jerome Dvorak, executive director of the Bloomsburg University Foundation. "The Confer Media Academy builds on that vision while recognizing how much the media industry has changed. It is a great way to continue Kerby's vision and give students new opportunities to discover their potential and prepare for successful careers."

The theme of the 2026 Confer Media Academy is "Every great career begins with a story." Students will explore how they can use their interests and communication skills to inform, inspire, connect, and lead.

For more information about the Confer Media Academy or to register to attend, visit bloomufdn.org/Confer or email Dr. David Magolis at dmagolis@commonwealthu.edu.

Media Attachments

Commonwealth University TV studio.

Commonwealth University TV control room.

Commonwealth University Radio/Podcast Studio.

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