About me
Dr. Brian Bentley has dedicated 24-plus years to higher education, earning educational accolades with a doctorate while working to complete a second doctorate. In addition, he has earned three master’s degrees: an MA in Mass Communications, an MFA in Creating Writing, and an MBA. He also has a Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting and a Certificate in Game Design. In higher education, his diverse roles have included Associate Dean of Academic Affairs, Campus Director of Academic Operations, Department Chair for Digital Filmmaking & Video Production/Visual Effects & Motion Graphics, and Co-Director of Broadcast Training. He serves as Associate Dean for the School of Arts & Sciences and Assistant Professor in the Department of Mass Media Arts at Clark Atlanta University. Beyond academia, Dr. Bentley has significant experience working at a CBS affiliate in live television as a News Producer, in production, and in post-production, where he spent some time as a Film Colorist for transferring 35mm theatrical features to tape and as an editor.
Dr. Bentley believes in incorporating both theoretical and practical classroom experiences for students. He also stays current with emerging trends and technology and pivots within the educational landscape. Dr. Bentley has completed various certification classes in the media field and is currently an AVID-certified instructor and specialist for Media Composer. He has applied skills in the professional industry and leveraged those principles in the classroom. Dr. Bentley updates his skill set in transformation with the educational landscape.
Dr. Bentley is also an independent film/documentary producer and director. He produced the impactful documentary “New Flavors: The Emergence of Southern Hip Hop,” which has been featured at several film festivals. He also co-produced a feature film entitled “Toni,” an action thriller that premiered at the Bermuda Film Festival. Dr. Bentley is working on several projects in the pipeline, including a documentary that explores Louisiana’s unique culture, from Creole cuisine to Mardi Gras.
Dr. Bentley is also a member of several professional organizations such as the Broadcast Education Association (BEA), Society of Motion Picture & Television Engineers (SMPTE), National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ), Association for Education in Journalism and Mass Communication (AEJMC), and the International Game Developers Association.
