The Warner University Communication Arts Department completed two service activities during the Fall 2025 semester, giving students the opportunity to practice what they have learned in the classroom.
In Instructor Trelane Schlenker’s Public Relations course, the students teamed up with FreePlay Florida, the state’s largest vintage arcade, pinball, and console show.
Students did research for the organization, which hosts its annual show in November. The students also volunteered during the event, participating during the set-up and the event itself, including for the prestigious IFPA-sanctioned pinball tournament.
“It’s interesting to watch the students’ reaction to an event like FreePlay Florida, an event they typically don’t know about,” said Schlenker. “Once they experience it first-hand, they begin to understand and sometimes ask to volunteer again.”
This is the fourth time students in the Public Relations course have helped with the event.
“I really enjoyed volunteering at Free Play,” said senior Reese Mole. “The event was unique and different from the type of events I’m used to working. It was also unique to present communication and marketing ideas to the organization, and the leadership team was strong and hardworking.”
Students presented their research and offered advice to the organization. For the students, it’s a way to apply their coursework to real-world use. For the organization, it’s an opportunity to hear ideas and opportunities that will keep the event growing.
The ComArts Department also spearheaded a school supply drive for Victory Ridge Academy throughout the fall semester. The Academy, a non-profit and part of Polk County Charter Schools, provides exceptional education students with an intensive classroom-based education that promotes independence, academic success, and community for all students.
Students in Dr. Tim Craig’s Radio Production course were able to promote the event during their radio shows as well as design and hang posters around campus.
The unique thing, according to Craig, was the ability to invite groups across campus.
“Dr. Lori Hutto from the Educational Studies Department was instrumental in making the connection with Victory Ridge. Student Life allowed the dissemination of posters and handouts, and Athletic Director Shawn Hanrahan and Sports Information Director Kennedy Burks really helped spread the word,” said Craig. “We were able to tie the supply drive with a double-header basketball game to really bring the event to a satisfying conclusion.”
As a Cadet Legion Outpost (#0023), Warner ComArts joined with other Outposts around the country to donate supplies to their local schools.
ComArts and Dr. Hutto presented the school supplies to Victory Ridge principal Dr. Amy Brown on Monday, Dec. 8.
Dropping off school supplies: (LEFT) Instructor Trelane Schlenker and Senior ComArts student Autumn Calcagno stand with Victory Ridge students and (RIGHT): Dr. Lori Hutto and Dr. Tim Craig
