Scripps College engages alumni across generations through dual advisory councils

The Scripps College of Communication is strengthening its connection to alumni through two advisory councils that bring a wide range of professional experience, industry insight and generational perspective to the dean’s office. Together, the Dean’s Advisory Council and the Young Alumni Council offer guidance that reflects both long-term industry trends and the realities of early-career life in rapidly shifting communication fields.

Dean Scott Titsworth said the councils play a crucial role in shaping the college’s direction.
“The two advisory councils provide the college with invaluable information concerning industry trends,” Titsworth said. “Although members of the two councils are at different stages of their careers, both actively work with students and meet regularly to discuss developments in the college. We are so grateful for the time they give in support of the college—their energy and enthusiasm are always exciting.”

Seasoned leaders shaping strategy

The Dean’s Advisory Council is composed of experienced alumni representing journalism, media, entertainment, strategic communication, technology, education and related communication sectors. Many serve as executives, founders, senior leaders or innovators within their fields and have maintained strong ties to OHIO.

Established to help the college understand emerging trends and strengthen its academic and professional programs, the council advises on strategic planning, industry needs and long-term initiatives that support both students and faculty.

Council members meet regularly with college leadership to discuss shifts in the communication landscape, workforce expectations, and opportunities for partnerships, mentorships and experiential learning.

“Serving on the Dean’s Advisory Council has been a really rewarding experience,” said David Jeffries, BSC ’11, CEO of OHD Studios and newly elected council chair. “When I met with the dean to chat about the evolving media industry, especially in Columbus, it sparked my passion for helping ensure graduates are prepared for the demands of the field. As an alum, maintaining that pipeline of strong, ready-to-work candidates keeps the quality of our degree high and strengthens the network for employers who look to Scripps graduates.”

A pipeline of fresh insight

While the Dean’s Advisory Council brings decades of collective experience, the Young Alumni Council adds insight rooted in recent student experiences and early professional realities. Formed to ensure the college hears from graduates who are only a few years into their careers, the council offers direct feedback on what today’s job market demands and how Scripps graduates can remain competitive.

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Members represent a range of majors and professional paths, including digital media, television, social media, nonprofits, marketing and emerging communication roles that didn’t exist even a few years ago. Their perspectives help the college refine career preparation, understand what skills employers are prioritizing, and ensure that programs stay relevant across disciplines.

Janelle Sohner, BSJ ’10, said adaptability remains one of the most important qualities new graduates can develop.

“Tools, platforms and cultural expectations shift so quickly,” Sohner said. “The fundamentals still matter—clear writing, knowing your audience, communicating with purpose—but pairing those with an openness to evolve sets graduates apart. The Young Alumni Council helps keep a bridge between the classroom and the real world by sharing what we’re seeing across industries right now.”

The Young Alumni Council also serves as an informal bridge between current students and the professional world through mentorship, networking and hands-on guidance. Wes Temple, BSC ’21, said the strength of the council comes from the practical support members can offer.

“Everyone on the council is a rockstar in their field because of the skills and experiences they built at OU,” Temple said. “Now we’re able to give students that ‘gift of going second.’ We help them with things like portfolios, networking and real-world feedback so they’re entering the industry with confidence.”

Together, their perspectives highlight how recent graduates help ensure Scripps remains connected to the fast-moving professional landscape students are preparing to enter.

Two councils, one mission

Though the two councils differ in age, experience and career stage, their purpose is closely aligned. Both groups work to strengthen the college’s programs, improve student opportunities and ensure that Scripps remains responsive to the fast-changing communication fields it serves.

Young Alumni Council member Sohner said the council is uniquely positioned to support that direction. “We’re close enough to the industry to see where communication fields are headed and connected enough to Scripps to help translate those insights into action,” she said.

Members from both councils often participate in events on campus, meet with students, and collaborate on initiatives ranging from curriculum input to internship pathways. Their combined perspectives give the dean a comprehensive view of the communication ecosystem, from entry-level expectations to executive-level transformations.

Together, the councils help the college understand not only where the communication industries are headed, but also what students need to thrive when they get there.

Strengthening the OHIO network

The dual-council structure reflects a broader commitment to building and sustaining lifelong engagement with alumni. By incorporating voices from across generations, the college leverages the full strength of its alumni network to support learning, innovation and leadership development.

Jeffries said the value of that connection is mutual.

“If we allow the connection between industry and the college to weaken, it ultimately hurts the entire alumni network,” he said. “When we stay engaged, we give the college real-time insight into industry needs, and in return, the college provides us with highly skilled, ready-to-work professionals. That partnership is essential for everyone’s success.”

Young Alumni Council member Temple said staying connected to Scripps is personal. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without the faculty and mentors who guided me,” he said. “Giving back feels meaningful, and half the time when I’m helping my mentee, I realize I can use the same advice myself.”

As communication industries continue to evolve, Scripps remains focused on ensuring that its academic programs and experiences reflect the realities of the workplace — and that alumni remain central to shaping that future.

Interested in getting involved?

The Scripps Young Alumni Council welcomes applications from new potential members in June of each year and meets August through April. Applications can be found here. Those interested in being considered for the Dean's Advisory Council may contact Annie Valeant.