Jeffery Glover emerges as Savannah State University’s first GFA graduate
by Sunzahra Banks (Tiger's Roar)
Jeffery Glover is the first Savannah State University student to graduate from the Georgia Film Academy (GFA) under the new partnership. Glover earned his bachelor of arts in mass communications (Magna Cum Laude) from SSU in May 2024 with a certification in film and television production from GFA in the summer of 2024.
Glover started his journey at SSU in Fall 2021 as a multimedia and digital communication student. He served in the United States Army for six years as an artilleryman before he decided to take a leap of faith and attend university.
“Going to college was never really a part of the journey. So, I'd say that pushing through and completing college, with honors, and a film certificate at the same time is something I can be proud of,” Glover remarked.
The Journalism Mass Communication (JMC) department at SSU served as a stepping stone for Glover, as it allowed him to try different forms of communication. Glover stated that he was able to take the knowledge and understanding gained from JMC to GFA, “with the passion and desire to learn and embrace the course fully.”
Department chair of JMC, Dr. Juliana Trammel, worked closely with Glover to ensure his success.
“Jeffery's passion for visual storytelling and his relentless pursuit of excellence truly set him apart. His dedication to honing his craft and his willingness to embrace challenges made it clear to me that he was on his way to becoming SSU's first GFA graduate. I just knew I had to do everything I could to make it possible for him,” she said.
Glover also credits his success to his time at GFA.
“I enjoyed the hands-on experience, practicing what working on set would feel like in different positions,” Glover stated.
Julio Saldarriaga, a GFA instructor who taught Glover the introduction to the film industry course, remarked, “What stood out to me about Jeffery was his eagerness to learn.
He was always enthusiastic, actively seeking out ways to deepen his understanding of the material. This curiosity, combined with his strong work ethic, set him apart from others in the class. His positive attitude and dedication to growth made him a pleasure to work with.”
Glover is already working in the field as a creative services producer at WSAV, and he plans to continue working to perfect his craft. In the next five years, he sees himself working in television or for a marketing agency where he can film “big commercials.”
“Something that will be continuous throughout will be the development of my own media company, as well as my efforts to be a successful film director,” Glover stated.
The JMC department first started offering GFA courses during the fall semester in 2023. Despite being a senior starting GFA courses, Glover was able to complete the certificate in three semesters. The GFA courses are available to students of all majors, and options are available to choose courses as electives or for certification from GFA.
Dr. Trammel explains the benefits of GFA courses for students: “It opens doors to a world of creativity and professional development, allowing them to gain practical skills and industry insights that are invaluable in today's competitive landscape. This opportunity not only enriches their educational experience but also empowers them to pursue their dreams in the film industry.”
As Glover has lived the experience and transcended to bigger platforms to better himself, so can others. Students at Savannah State University are encouraged to take advantage of the partnership between SSU and GFA and learn more about film and the opportunities available.
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