Alumni Profiles
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Media and Communication at
Muhlenberg College |
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DONNA WRIGHT SOMERVILLE
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Class of 1985
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Director of Television Development / Edelman Product
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typical day:
I was a daily producer for over 15 years in NY, LA (produced at NBC, Lifetime, CBS). When I had my first child I stopped daily producing and started consulting from home. So, now I develop new programming for cable outlets (HG, History Channel, etc.). My days are dominated by my girls--but at some point each day I sit at the computer and create shows. When a network is interested in a show, my job becomes more talent searching (for a host) and once we find a host I train them for the show. This part requires me to go into a studio or out in the field for shoots, training and development.
exciting news:
Moved to San Francisco, CA, married with 2 girls (Sydney-6, Callie-1). My husband is also in the television business (he anchors the morning and 5pm news in the Bay Area).
insights:
In my 20 year career I have hired hundreds of people, from entry level to experienced producers. The most important thing to develop in school for this business are: 1. A passion for the process (not the outcome), 2. Great writing and story-telling skills, 3. An attitude of willingness to do whatever it takes to get the job done, 4. Curiosity
(2005)
