Education First: Kicking Off My New NATAS PSW Board Term
- Kent Kay
- Aug 25
- 2 min read
I’m honored to begin a new three-year term on the Board of Governors for the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (NATAS) Pacific Southwest Chapter—the organization that administers the Pacific Southwest Emmy® Awards, honoring outstanding achievement in regional television across San Diego, Las Vegas, Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Santa Maria, Bakersfield, and Palm Springs. In past years I’ve served the chapter in several capacities, including a memorable stint as a voting National Trustee at the national meeting of all chapters. I’m excited for what we can accomplish together.
Why This Matters
Our chapter is a working community of producers, reporters, editors, designers, engineers, educators, and students. The industry evolves fast—new platforms, tools, and workflows appear seemingly overnight. NATAS keeps the craft strong by recognizing excellence (Emmy® Awards), building community, and creating on-ramps for the next generation.
My Focus This Term: Education & School Involvement
I’m especially energized to serve on the Education Committee. My goal is simple: connect classrooms to careers across Southern California and Las Vegas.
Campus Connections: Classroom visits, portfolio/reel reviews, and curriculum-aligned workshops in storytelling, production, post, and responsible use of emerging tech.
Access to Opportunity: Shadow days, studio/newsroom tours, and internship pipelines tied to real productions.
Community Partnerships: Collaborations with schools, festivals, and nonprofits to bridge education and industry.
$25 Student Membership. Students enrolled full-time in telecommunications courses at area high schools, colleges, or universities within our chapter are eligible for student membership at $25. Apply via Emmy® Express (link available on the chapter site).
Scholarships. Funds raised by the chapter support student scholarships—see the online applications for deadlines and criteria.
Student Production Awards. Projects conceived, produced, and executed by students are eligible for recognition in categories including:
Newscast
Video Essay
Fiction/Non-Fiction – Short Form
Fiction/Non-Fiction – Long Form
Sports Program
Animation/Graphics/Special Effects
Writer
Photographer
Editor
Director
Talent – News or SportsEntry fee information is posted online each year; please check current instructions before submitting.
A Call to Industry Veterans: Mentor & Give Back
If you’ve built a career in TV, film, or media, we need your voice. A single conversation, reel critique, or short shadow can change someone’s trajectory.
Host office hours or guest-lecture
Offer portfolio/reel feedback
Provide micro-internships or shadow opportunities
Join a panel or lead a hands-on workshop
Your experience helps others accomplish their dreams—and strengthens the creative ecosystem we all rely on.
Let’s Build This Together
Students & Educators: Want a visit, workshop, or portfolio session? Reach out.
Industry Pros: Ready to mentor or host a shadow day? I’d love to connect.
Organizations & Sponsors: Partner with us to expand training, events, and access across the region.
I’m grateful to serve again—and I’m excited to spend this term amplifying education, mentorship, and opportunity throughout the Pacific Southwest.
— Kent
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