Empowering the Next Generation: Inside the Digital Media Institute
By Dr. Telisa Franklin

Join Us for an Open House – November 1, 2025

The Digital Media Institute (DMI) is opening its doors to parents, students, and community members for an exciting Open House on November 1, 2025, from 10 AM to 12 PM at 3333 Old Brownsville, Bartlett, TN 38134. This event provides an exclusive opportunity to learn about the institute’s programs, meet the talented instructional team, and explore enrollment in its inaugural 8-week cohort.

The instructor team includes Michael Andrian Davis, a recognized expert in podcasting and public speaking, alongside Tracy Bethea and Lamar Davis, specialists in video production and drone piloting. Visitors will tour state-of-the-art labs, learn about the innovative curriculum, and see firsthand how DMI is shaping the future of digital media education.

The Digital Media Institute exists to provide a safe, dynamic, and engaging environment for youth to explore digital media marketing, production, and technology. Particularly in communities facing economic and educational challenges, DMI offers students the guidance, mentorship, and hands-on experience necessary to succeed in a digital-first world.

Under the leadership and vision of Andrew Perpener Jr., DMI has been designed to illuminate a clear path forward for students seeking careers in digital media, offering industry-standard tools and techniques while fostering creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration.

DMI’s mission is to inspire and equip the next generation of digital media professionals to be confident, skilled, and ready to thrive in an increasingly technological world. Students will gain not only technical expertise but also leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills essential tools for navigating both educational and professional opportunities.

DMI Goals and Core Values

• Serve as a hub for collaboration among students, educators, and media professionals.

• Foster a culture of innovation, mutual respect, and open discussion.

• Provide hands-on learning experiences that prepare students for careers in digital media, marketing, and communications.

Immersive Programs
DMI’s Production Camp is an immersive, hands-on program in video production, podcasting, and drone operations. Students will learn the technical and creative skills required to produce high-quality media content, while developing essential leadership and teamwork skills.

Students explore the complete production process, from conceptualization and storyboarding to filming and post-production editing using industry-standard software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Final Cut Pro. They learn camera techniques, lighting, framing, and composition while understanding the importance of storytelling and project management.

The drone industry continues to grow, creating high demand for trained operators. DMI students learn the fundamentals of drone piloting, safety procedures, FAA requirements, and practical applications across multiple industries, including media, agriculture, and real estate. Hands-on flight practice and technical instruction provide a foundation for future career opportunities.

Podcasting and public speaking courses teach students to craft compelling stories, record professional quality audio, and communicate effectively. Students will explore target audiences, episode structure, recording techniques, and content promotion strategies all essential skills in the modern media landscape.

Curriculum Overview
DMI’s curriculum is designed to equip students with a diverse skill set:

• Introduction to Marketing: Principles of market research, branding, and advertising strategy.

• Social Media Marketing: Creating and analyzing content for social media platforms.

• Digital Photography: Techniques in composition, lighting, and photo editing for storytelling.

• Public Relations & Communication: Building organizational image, media relations, and crisis management strategies.

• Graphic Design for Marketing: Designing visuals, logos, and promotional materials using professional tools.

• Video Production & Editing: From scripting to post-production, students learn the full workflow of professional video projects.

All courses emphasize hands-on experience, allowing students to apply lessons in real-world scenarios under expert guidance.

This course introduces students to creative camera techniques, lighting, composition, and professional editing practices. Participants will develop original projects that demonstrate both technical proficiency and creative storytelling, preparing them for careers in media and entertainment.

Students will study FAA regulations, drone technology, and flight safety while gaining practical experience in piloting drones. DMI’s program prepares students for a rapidly growing industry with applications in media, construction, agriculture, and beyond.

This course provides training in effective communication, story development, audio recording, and digital content promotion. Students will learn how to engage audiences, craft compelling narratives, and produce high-quality podcasts.

Experienced Mentors and Industry Leaders
DMI’s programs are supported by a team of industry professionals:

• Michael Andrian Davis: Podcasting and public speaking expert, guiding students in storytelling and voice techniques.

• Tracy Bethea: Public Speaker and Radio Expert.

• Lamar Davis: Drone operations and technical expert, teaching safe, precise, and creative drone piloting skills.

The instructors provide mentorship, technical knowledge, and guidance that prepares students for the digital media industry.

A Launchpad for Future Innovators
DMI is more than a training program it is a launchpad for youth innovation and career readiness. By combining hands-on experience, technical instruction, and leadership development, the institute ensures students are prepared for future opportunities in digital media and communications.

The institute’s holistic approach addresses both skill development and personal growth, fostering confidence, creativity, and a sense of purpose among students.

Enrollment is now open for the 8-week Fall 2025 cohort. The Digital Media Institute is ideal for students interested in video production, podcasting, drone operations, social media marketing, or digital communications.

The Digital Media Institute is a center for innovation, learning, and creativity. Students will develop technical expertise, leadership skills, and confidence to thrive in the digital world.

Parents, community partners, and sponsors are invited to engage with DMI attend the Open House, support programs, or contribute to cultivating a new generation of skilled digital media professionals.

With the vision of Andrew Perpener Jr., the guidance of expert instructors, and a commitment to youth empowerment, DMI is ready to prepare students to tell their stories, create meaningful media, and shape the future.

For more information or to enroll:
nationep.org/dmi