Bozo the Clown fan. Emmy winner. Video production specialist.
That is a very abbreviated resume for Mike Wiseman, UT’s newest staff member in the School of Journalism and Electronic Media (JEM).
Wiseman helps operate The Volunteer Channel (TVC), UT’s student television station, which is now controlled by the school, and his position at the channel is a perfect fit.
“It has always been my ultimate dream to combine my love for TV with my passion for teaching, so when this opportunity came up I jumped on it. I’m extremely happy.”
Wiseman’s interest in video production originated in an unusual place.
“When I was a little boy, about four or five, I was on Bozo the Clown in Chicago,” Wiseman laughed. “I was amazed by everything happening behind the scenes. It snowballed from there.”
His mother fed his interest in video production and bought him a camera, which he used to capture band practices and short movies with his brother.
Since his days of Bozo the Clown and home movies, Wiseman has come a long way. He recently earned an Emmy for his coverage of the Gatlinburg Christmas parade, which he worked on during his time with the local NBC station, WBIR-TV.
Although previously nominated for an Emmy, he never imagined winning one.
“I was in a category with so many talented people, and when they announced my name, I was totally shocked … it felt like a dream.”
Wiseman was thrilled about winning an Emmy, but recognition for his work has never been a goal.
“I don’t do what I do for accolades or awards; I do it because I love it.”
Wiseman has big plans for TVC.
Although he wants to stay true to the channel’s staples like Hot Topix and Greek Corner, he said he hopes to add fun programs such as Saturday morning cartoons and The Son of Ghoul Show, where B horror films are featured along with comedy sketches.
“I want TVC’s programming to fit the flavor of the campus,” Wiseman said. “I’m excited about being here. I’m looking forward to growing TVC and making JEM bigger and better.”
—
C O N T A C T :
Christine Copelan (ccopela7@utk.edu)
Amy Blakely (865-974-5034, ablakely@utk.edu)