Sky Cramer, a 2023 Anderson University graduate with a bachelor of arts degree in cinema and media arts, worked alongside Professor Kris Rinas this summer at the U.S. Gymnastics Championships in San Jose, California.
With a background in large-scale live events, Rinas works as a professor and is the director of studio and technical operations at AU.
Before coming to AU, Rinas served for 13 years at Grace Church in Noblesville, where he had responsibilities in audio, video and lighting management along with technical directing and TV production.
Rinas worked his first gymnastics event in 2008, but in 2021, a previous co-worker from Grace Church invited him back. However, they were looking for more than just help from him.
“They needed reliable, trustworthy individuals who could help enhance the experience of gymnastic events,” explained Rinas.
Rinas recommended his student, Cramer, at the time to be on the team.
The two met in the spring of 2020 when Cramer was a freshman and Rinas was new on the faculty in January 2020. Rinas noted that Cramer quickly obtained credibility and trust from him.
“I consider Sky my friend and colleague,” explained Rinas.
At the championships this past summer, Cramer worked in running live cameras and archiving videos. The U.S. Gymnastics Championships this past summer was Cramer’s fourth gymnastic event he has worked, including two without Rinas by his side.
“I’ve gained a lot of experience not only in my skill but also working with professionals in the field and networking opportunities,” said Cramer.
Cramer currently works as a freelancer, local to Anderson, Indiana. His interests center in photography, videography, film and cars. He hopes to continue his freelance career and keep as busy as possible.
Cramer gained many things from his time at AU. “Anderson University gives you the flexibility to grow in the department and the opportunity to get out there to do the work on your own,” explains Cramer.
After all, not everybody can say they’ve been in the same room as Simone Biles.
Lauryn Hopkins is a junior from Pendleton, Indiana, majoring in public relations event planning and minoring in sport marketing. Lauryn is an associate with Fifth Street Communications®, a student-run public relations agency at Anderson University.