From UCF to Hollywood: Nicholson School Alum Shares His Journey

Dr. Will Kinnally’s Development of Electronic Media course had the privilege of hearing from Nicholson School of Communication alum, Clay Newbill, on Nov. 20.

Newbill is a pioneer and innovator of reality television beginning as a member of “The Real World” producing team. Since then, he has executive produced such popular programs as “The Mole,” “The Bachelor,” “The Benefactor” and most recently, “Shark Tank” and “Redneck Island.”

During his guest lecture, Newbill discussed his journey from UCF student to Hollywood producer. Additionally, students were able to view clips from “Shark Tank” to learn about the creative process of developing and producing a reality television show.
Following the lecture, Newbill joined the dean of the College of Sciences, Dr. Michael Johnson and the director of the Nicholson School of Communication, Dr. Robert C. Chandler, to work toward the finalization of the Hollywood Internship Program.

Newbill, in support of the University Central of Florida Nicholson School of Communication plans to hire interns for his production company and subsidize the cost of their internship in Los Angeles. More information on the Hollywood Internship will be available in the coming months. For more information on the internship program please contact Ms. Amanda Nethero at Amanda.Nethero@ucf.edu.

For more information on establishing scholarships, endowments or supporting the Nicholson School of Communication and the College of Sciences please contact Ray Allen, Development Director, at 407-823-1952 or ray.allen@ucf.edu.