Jes Therkelsen

Jes Therkelsen is a distinguished professor in the Media, Communications, and Journalism department at California State University, Fresno. With a robust academic background, he holds an M.F.A. in Film and Media Arts from American University and an M.B.A. from the Craig School of Business. Therkelsen brings over 15 years of experience to his roles as a documentary storyteller, filmmaker, photographer, and educator. His creative works have garnered attention on platforms such as PBS and have been showcased at prestigious film festivals, including the SlamDance Festival and the San Francisco Documentary Film Festival. Therkelsen's expertise in documentary storytelling is complemented by his scholarly pursuits, particularly in the field of linguistics. He has conducted significant research on the linguistic effects of teaching documentary storytelling, with his findings published in the Journal of Film and Video. Therkelsen is deeply committed to advancing the field of documentary production and film and video editing. His dedication to education and research is evident in his active participation in several professional organizations, such as the Broadcast Education Association and the International Documentary Association. Through these affiliations, he continues to contribute to the discourse and development of media and communications. In his teaching, Therkelsen emphasizes the power of visual storytelling and its impact on society. He encourages his students to explore the intersections of media, culture, and technology, fostering a dynamic learning environment that prepares them for the evolving landscape of journalism and media production. Beyond academia, Therkelsen remains engaged with the broader community of filmmakers and storytellers. His passion for documentary work is reflected in his ongoing projects and collaborations, which aim to shed light on diverse narratives and voices. Through his multifaceted career, Jes Therkelsen continues to inspire and influence both his students and peers in the world of media and communications.