Media That Matters is an annual conference presented by the Center for Media & Social Impact at American University.
The annual conference that convenes the top thinkers in documentary and public media content, media strategists, NGOs, funders and individual filmmakers to track and discuss the key themes in social-change media innovation
Past Conferences
2015 Conference
The 2015 conference, “Tools of the Trade,” focused on impact and measurement. It also marked a leadership transition at the Center for Media & Social Impact, celebrating Pat Aufderheide’s achievements as she moves on to new pursuits and welcoming Caty Borum Chattoo and Brigid Maher as our new Co-Directors.
2014 Conference
The 2014 conference, “Building the Story Experience,” marked the 10th anniversary of Media That Matters. The conference highlighted the Center’s important role serving as a resource for social impact media makers while celebrating the community’s ongoing success and innovation.
2013 Conference
The 2013 conference, “Measure for Measure,” delved into strategies for measuring the social change impact of our media. We asked experts about the latest tools, fostering the next generation, and longevity across platforms.
2012 Conference
The 2012 conference, “Change for Good,” featured conversations about how independent social change filmmakers can execute integrated campaigns that are strategic, action-oriented, and have enduring impact.
2011 Conference
The 2011 conference, “Storytelling across Platforms,” focused on today’s evolving media world in which publics can engage with creative projects across platforms such as radio, the web and mobile devices, as well as film and TV.
2010 Conference
The 2010 conference, “Real Stories, Real Impact,” asked panelists and participants to explore the strategies before, during and after production that generate real social action. The conference included speaker presentations and panels, in between which attendees participated in group discussions and networking breaks. Participants also benefited from a “shout out” opportunity where they could take to the mic to share each other’s projects or organizations with the entire conference community.
