Communications, Media Arts & Theatre - CMAT Department at CSU

03/25/2025

For , we’re shining the spotlight on Gwendolyn Williams - a dedicated CMAT major, who is now in her Senior year here at CSU. ✨

Gwendolyn has spent the last two years leaving her mark on CSU’s Communications, Media Arts & Theatre scene. She has acted in five CSU-affiliated plays, and starred in two short films, produced here on-campus 🎬

Beyond acting, Gwendolyn has explored various creative avenues, working as a production assistant for Paramount and TEDxChicago. She was awarded the Leo Burnett Scholarship for marketing and played a key role in revamping our ROTC Instagram page, after earning the CMAT ROTC Fall 2024 scholarship. Currently on the Dean’s List, she remains committed to excelling both academically and creatively. 📚

Known by her stage name, "Harley Gwen," she is a DJ, host, and actress who embraces every aspect of media arts. Inspired by Queen Latifah, Gwendolyn admires her ability to excel across industries while using her platform to uplift Black voices. That same drive fuels Gwendolyn’s work as a mentor, encouraging others to embrace their talents and confidently pursue their artistic dreams.

Let’s celebrate Gwendolyn Williams and all the incredible women at CSU this Women's History Month! 🎉💚

03/24/2025

03/05/2025

The Communications, Media Arts & Theatre Department at Chicago State University would like to thank Amy Luciani for a lively and engaging Industry Chat. Your insights on Content Creation and Social Media Influence were truly inspiring, and our students left feeling empowered and ready to take on the digital world. Thank you for sharing your journey, knowledge, and game-changing strategies with us—we appreciate you!

The Communications, Media Arts & Theatre Department is pleased to announce the CMAT Speaker Series—a dynamic ​series ​featuring professionals who are redefining their fields, offering insights, personal stories, and invaluable career advice.

Join us for an exclusive virtual Industry Chat with Amy Luciani, a social media influencer from Love and Hip Hop: Atlanta, on Tuesday, March 4 at 12:30 p.m. This is your chance to hear firsthand what it takes to thrive in today’s competitive media landscape.

03/03/2025

We are of CMATer Janiela McKinney who served as the stoptime live camera operator for the Polar Plunge! Way to go, Janiela!

03/03/2025

A big congratulations to Professor Dow for directing the new music video Untitled, which premiered on Saturday! CMAT alumni, students, and staff came together to celebrate this incredible achievement. Way to go, Professor Dow!

02/28/2025

We are of CMAT alum, Lyric Powell! Way to go, Lyric!

Indiana University is taking nursing education to the next level with the launch of an innovative virtual reality (VR) program.

02/24/2025

The Communications, Media Arts & Theatre Department is pleased to announce the CMAT Speaker Series—a dynamic ​series ​featuring professionals who are redefining their fields, offering insights, personal stories, and invaluable career advice.

Join us for an exclusive virtual Industry Chat with Amy Luciani, a social media influencer from Love and Hip Hop: Atlanta, on Tuesday, March 4 at 12:30 p.m. This is your chance to hear firsthand what it takes to thrive in today’s competitive media landscape.

02/24/2025

Hey Chicago State family,

I'm thrilled to invite you to a very special night as we celebrate homegrown talent and creativity! Join me, Prof. Dow, along with current students Robii Bijou and London Westsley—whose amazing contributions helped bring this project to life—for the official QUICK SPARKS premiere and music video screening of “UNTITLED”.

📍 Venue: (2646 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL)
📅 Date: Saturday, March 1st

Event Schedule:
5:00 PM: Doors open – Arrive early and soak in the campus vibes!
6:30 PM: Screening begins – Don’t miss a single moment.

After Screening: Q&A session hosted by – Let’s chat about the creative journey.

Why You Should Join Us:

Be part of our creative legacy: Celebrate Chicago State’s very own as we shine together.

Advance ticket perks: The first 50 advance buyers will enter a raffle for free gifts!

Better ticket prices: Advance tickets are more affordable, leaving more room for those post-event snacks!

Let’s come together to make this an unforgettable night.

Get your tickets now: 🔗 https://events.eventnoire.com/e/sessions-with-tandaleria-presents-untitled-music-v

Looking forward to celebrating with you all!

— Prof. Dow

02/19/2025

TODAY!

AUDITIONS!! This week!! No Experience Necessary.

02/18/2025

CMAT alumnus Blake Reasoner read two excerpts of plays-in-progress at the Living Q***r Monthly event at Bramble Theatre. One of those excerpts was from Professor India Burton's new work, Measure of a Man, which is a play that chronicles the life of Chairman Fred Hampton. Huge congratulations are warranted for both of them!

02/18/2025

🎬 Big News, CMAT Fam! 🎉

We’re excited to share that CMAT’s very own Professor Dow is hitting the big screen! He stars in the short film "Sister's Keeper," which will be showcased at Indiecon 2025 this Saturday, February 22nd, during the 5 PM Film Block.

This is the perfect chance to support, network, and catch an incredible lineup of indie films. Don’t miss out—grab your day pass and join the fun!

🎟️ Get your tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/chicago-indiecon-2025-tickets-1207843816369?fbclid=PAY2xjawIhvD1leHRuA2FlbQIxMQABpio6IPLNu8PKn-n_iss4vDw8WpfkCpVwCzpkwaq1PuOdaJC4PK_Sos9wqA_aem_QPBdzZidZrgKCfZ2miBzcg