Virtual Career Panel: Women in the Arts

Join us for a career conversation with alumnae who are leading successful careers in the arts. Meant to be a companion to our fall 2023 Faculty Office Hour “tour of the arts” presentations, this panel discussion will provide the opportunity to hear how these women used their URI art and communications degrees to launch fulfilling careers.

The discussion is designed to replicate career conversations happening on our virtual mentoring platform, URI CareerConnect. Experienced alumnae in the field will provide insight and advice based on their background and how they got to where they are today. They’ll answer the questions you’d likely want to ask in a one-on-one conversation with an experienced alum—and you’ll have the opportunity to ask your own questions!

Panelists include:

• Rebekah Berger ’07 (Journalism) – Co-host, 92 PRO FM Morning Show
• Jaclyn Diffily ’04 (Art) – Director of Operations, Brand Office, Theory; Owner, Impressed Inc.
• Sarah FitzGerald ’09 (Art) – Photo & Video Producer, SharkNinja

Cost: Complimentary

Register by: Wednesday, January 31, 2024

About the Panelists

Rebekah Berger ’07

A Cranston, RI native and URI journalism major, Bekah co-hosts the 92 PRO FM radio show, “Giovanni in the Morning.” She has 16+ years of radio experience at Cumulus Providence sister stations Hot 106 and WPR. She also makes monthly appearances on TMZ live and is a contributor to local CBS TV affiliate, “The Rhode Show.” Bekah has become *the* source for entertainment and pop culture news. She has interviewed some of the entertainment industry’s top celebrities and the occasional faux-lebrity, including many, many, “Real Housewives!” When she is not behind the mic or posting a hot headline, Bekah isn’t a regular mom, but a cool mom to her daughters Arielle and Iris. She also loves spending time with her couch co-pilot and husband Tony.

Jaclyn Diffily ’04

Jaclyn earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from URI and has 18 years of experience in retail working on the creative and marketing behind wedding stationery and luxury fashion brands. A seasoned art director and brand ambassador, she crafts purposeful, authentic, and impactful design solutions. In 2009 she founded her own company, Impressed Inc., offering bespoke art direction and paper goods for weddings, soirées, and entrepreneurs. In addition to her own business, she is director of operations for the brand office of luxury fashion brand Theory. Jaclyn facilitates the project management and streamlines communications for eight global regions, upholds brand guidelines, and manages the hiring of creative talent. She is a member of multiple national and local women’s networking groups and is passionate about helping other women in business put their best self forward. Grounded with a strong love of community, Jaclyn feels together she can help to create the extraordinary.

Sarah FitzGerald ’09

With a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from URI, Sarah has honed a diverse skill set across the photography industry with experience as a photographer, photo editor, studio manager, and producer. Her portfolio boasts collaborations with iconic brands like Hasbro, Jose Cuervo, Revlon, and Stuart Weitzman, among others. Presently, as a dedicated Producer at SharkNinja, Sarah orchestrates the execution of all photoshoots, playing a pivotal role in delivering visually compelling images that elevate brand identity and appeal to global audiences.

URI Foundation & Alumni Engagement welcomes individuals with disabilities to participate in its programs and activities. If you need accommodations or have questions about access to the event, please call 401.874.2242 at least five business days in advance. For TTY assistance, please call the R.I. Relay Service at 711.