Seth Gitner is a seasoned professional whose expertise spans art direction, photography, video, web development, and design.
I’m a hands-on creative who teaches by doing. My work blends photojournalism, video, design, and web development—and I bring that same energy into the classroom and every collaboration. Whether it’s building a website, shaping a story, or mentoring a team, I love rolling up my sleeves and working side by side. My diverse skill set allows him to approach projects with a unique perspective, blending creativity and technical proficiency.
Teaching at Syracuse University
I teach multimedia storytelling at Syracuse University’s Newhouse School, where I split my time between the Magazine, News and Digital Journalism department and the Visual Communications department.
Professional Background
Before teaching at Syracuse, I was a newspaper photojournalist and multimedia editor in Maryland and Virginia. At The Roanoke Times and Roanoke.com, I helped push a legacy newsroom into the digital age—bringing video, interactive graphics, and web-first thinking to daily news coverage. That work earned awards from APME, Scripps Howard, the Newspaper Association of America, and the Online News Association.
Leadership & Recognition
I’ve served as head of the visual communication division for AEJMC and on the national board of the NPPA. I used to co-direct the NPPA Multimedia Immersion Workshop, and I’ve been recognized with the NPPA’s Joseph Costa Award, President’s Award, and Robert F. Garland Educator Award. I’ve also received two lifetime memberships for my volunteer work with the NPPA. I now serve on the Board of Directors for the National Press Photographers Foundation.
Disability Advocacy
In addition to teaching and consulting, I’m deeply involved in disability advocacy at Syracuse University and in the Central New York community. I work with CNY Adaptive Sports to create inclusive athletic opportunities and help organize events that bring together students, athletes, and community members. At SU, I collaborate with departments across campus to support adaptive sports programming and promote accessibility in media, design, and storytelling.
“Professor Gitner does an amazing job of bringing his own real-world experience into the classroom, and turning that into engaging and meaningful lessons for students. Even today, as I work as a cinematographer, I think back to what I learned in his classes and apply that regularly.”
Bridging Academia and Industry Through Consulting
• Applying research and classroom experience to real-world creative challenges
• Helping organizations and nonprofits tell stronger stories through authentic digital communication
• Bridging education and industry by mentoring professionals with expanded, future-ready skillsets
