In the bustling hub of the U of A Student Media Center, a figure stands out — not just for his technical expertise but also for his profound commitment to mentoring and shaping the next generation of media professionals. Meet Sam Gibby, the broadcast engineer whose journey from biblical studies to broadcast media has been marked by a deep passion for education and student empowerment. 

Gibby's trajectory into the realm of broadcast engineering wasn't conventional. With a background in biblical interpretation and church ministry, he initially embarked on a career path far removed from the world of journalism. However, fate had other plans. An internship opportunity at a church in nearby Rogers eventually blossomed into a full-time position in broadcast media. After the experience heading up the church's media department, Gibby accepted a position as broadcast engineer for UATV and KXUA. 

Reflecting on his transition, Gibby acknowledges the learning curve he encountered, particularly in adapting to the structured nature of broadcast media compared to the more improvisational style prevalent in the church environment.  

"Cameras are cross-cultural in that the technology is the same across industries. There was a learning curve with terminology as well as the way shows are produced. In the church world, events are not scripted and camera shots were directed on the fly. In contrast, at UATV television, everything is scripted and planned," Gibby said. 

Beyond his technical responsibilities, Gibby's role extends to mentorship and student engagement. He relishes the opportunity to guide students through their academic journey, providing not only technical expertise but also invaluable life skills. Whether assisting with camera setups, troubleshooting technical issues or offering advice on interpersonal dynamics within teams, Gibby's influence extends far beyond the confines of the broadcast studio. His dedication to fostering a nurturing environment where students feel heard and valued is clear in every interaction.  

"I love providing students with leadership and technical skills and watching them evolve from uncertain freshmen to confident seniors who are able to trust their skills," Gibby said. 

One of his favorite stories of working with students involves a broadcast student who demonstrated leadership potential. The student expressed an interest in the technical side of broadcasting and began working with Gibby as a student employee during his graduate schoolwork in sports management. The student now works full time for the Northwest Arkansas Naturals baseball team and continues to work part time as a production trainer.  

"It has been cool to watch him go from student to part-time student employee, to alumni and producer who is now training students. Knowing that I had a small part in developing his leadership skills makes me proud." 

Gibby appreciates the flexibility in his schedule and says his supervisor understands when he needs to take time away from the job for family doctor appointments.  

"When I leave here, my work is not done. Student engineers will engage me right before production with a question. Having flexibility with my on-site schedule has been ideal," Gibby reflected.  

Outside of his professional endeavors, Gibby finds solace in family life and intellectual pursuits. As a husband and father to two children, one of whom is on the Autism spectrum, Gibby cherishes moments of simplicity amidst the chaos of everyday life. His love for reading and theological discourse serves as a reminder of his multifaceted identity beyond the realm of technology. Because of the flexibility in his schedule and his supervisor's support, Gibby has been able to continue his church technical director role as well. 

Gibby expressed gratitude for the university's flexible spending account (FSA) offering and the 10% match for retirement benefits. He's also looking ahead at the potential savings in tuition costs.  

"My son is starting high school next year, and he's already looking at the U of A for a place where he could attend so our family could use the 50% tuition discount."   

As for what's next, Gibby's upcoming project to digitize the archives of UATV and KXUA underscores his commitment to preserving and advancing the legacy of student media at the U of A. He and several student employees will work on converting the physical tapes to digital records, which will allow the content to be searchable, and the tapes can be archived in Mullins Library.  

As Gibby welcomes visitors to the Student Media Center, offering tours and insights into the inner workings of television and radio production, he embodies the spirit of mentorship and camaraderie that defines the university experience.

About the Employee Spotlight Series: The employee spotlight series highlights U of A faculty and staff members, the impact they have on campus and the community more broadly, and what makes the university an employer of choice for them individually. Each U of A employee plays a critical role in advancing the 150 Forward strategic priorities: advancing student success, achieving research excellence and enhancing the university's status as an employer of choice. If you have a recommendation of an employee to interview, contact Rachel Gerner at rgerner@uark.edu.