Faculty Profiles

Sara Shields is an Assistant Professor of Instruction in the School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Texas State University in San Marcos, TX. Shields is part of the Digital Media Innovation faculty and teaches courses that introduce students to web design, video production, graphic design, and social media.

In Fall 2025, Shields developed the Creator Studio, a dedicated space designed to support student-led content creation, including video production, podcasting, and digital storytelling. She is also the founder and faculty advisor of Campus Creators, a student organization established in Spring 2025 that provides students with opportunities to collaborate, build portfolios, and engage in creative media production outside the classroom. In recognition of her teaching excellence, Shields was awarded the Presidential Distinction Award for Excellence in Teaching at Texas State University.

Shields received her B.S. in Public Relations and M.A. in Digital Media from Texas State University. She has worked in digital production for over 12 years, specializing in web development and video production. Shields has produced professional commercials and radio ads that have been distributed throughout Central Texas and has managed a roster of over 15 clients nationwide while working in a digital marketing role in Austin, TX. In addition to teaching full-time, she runs a digital production business, working with a variety of clients on website development, video production, and photography. Sara is also an FAA-licensed commercial drone pilot.

Shields has been a speaker at multiple conferences, primarily focusing on drone technology and experiential learning opportunities in the classroom. She has also presented at SXSW Interactive, where she discussed technology and graphic design.