BIO

Nicole (Van Slyke) Kubisch is a seasoned Content Producer and Professor specializing in Documentary Production and Storytelling. A graduate of the Academy ('03) and RPI ('07), Nicole furthered her expertise with an MA in Teaching and Learning through Documentary Film from the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), culminating in a thesis on the intersectionality of art and technology access.

Career Highlights:

Americorps Service: Worked in underperforming high schools to foster young entrepreneurs, teaching budgeting, goal development, marketing, and basic business skills. Later served as a Service Leader for the New England branch, enhancing volunteer training and school partnerships.

Professional Role: Since 2015, Nicole has been a Producer/Editor at WMHT-PBS, creating community-focused content on issues like the opioid epidemic and local culture. Productions have spotlighted figures such as William Kennedy, Lena Spencer of Café Lena, Thomas Cole and most recently a documentary reflecting on the centennial of the NYS Parks and Historical Sites. In 2024 Nicole took on the role of Content and Engagement Manager providing guidance and streamlining workflow for producers. 

Academic Contributions: Nicole teaches Documentary Editing and Media Arts at Skidmore College and Union College.

Current Endeavors:

Board Involvement: Vice President of the Rensselaer County Historical Society, nearing the end of her second term.

Entrepreneurial Ventures: Co-founded a production company in 2019, focusing on independent films and passion projects with her husband, Zeke.

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