By: Michelle Lopez

Photo Credit: Rahne Alexander

Meet Kristen Anchor, an Associate Teaching Professor in UMBC's Media and Communication Studies Department. Her artistic and professional background brings a unique perspective to the classroom. As a filmmaker, curator, musician, and audio-visual designer, she mentors emerging media creators, drawing from her rich artistic background. Her commitment to community-based media practices shapes both her teaching and creative work, fostering an environment of ongoing evolution and collaboration.

Before joining UMBC, Professor Anchor directed the film and video programs at Baltimore's Creative Alliance for nearly a decade. There, she curated screenings, developed workshops, and fostered connections among local filmmakers and artists. While working at Creative Alliance, she pursued her own creative endeavors, including co-founding the band The Degenerettes with her wife, Rahne Alexander. Though the band no longer tours, their music continues to resonate with new listeners online, highlighting the ongoing impact of their work.

Professor Anchor's teaching journey began during her time in UMBC's Intermedia and Digital Arts MFA program. A Graduate Assistantship led her to work in the New Media Studio, where she further developed her skills as a camera operator and video editor. This experience, coupled with her involvement in MCS 101 labs, paved the way for her transition from part-time work to a full-time lecturer role. In her teaching, she emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and creativity, designing assignments that provide structure while allowing room for experimentation. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in her experiences within Baltimore's art community, where collaboration and mutual support work hand-in-hand.

Looking ahead, Professor Anchor anticipates significant innovation in multimedia. She is interested in the evolution of virtual and augmented reality, the increasing overlap of gaming and cinematic storytelling, as well as the development of collective storytelling through social platforms. 

Professor Anchor's work at UMBC reflects her dedication to helping students navigate a constantly changing media landscape. Through hands-on production, reflective conversations, and collaborative projects, she prepares students to become thoughtful media makers. Her active involvement in Baltimore's arts communities enhances student experiences within the MCS department, bridging the gap between academic theory and local creative practice.