From Stage to Studio: The Technology Behind Pirates Pitch

On April 2, 2025, Seton Hall University’s Pirates Pitch, the annual Venture Fund Competition, marked a major technological success. The event showcased the collaborative efforts of the Stillman School of Business, the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media, and the Teaching, Learning and Technology Center (TLTC). This Shark Tank-style event provided a platform for students to pitch innovative business ideas to a panel of expert judges and a live audience in the University Center Theatre, which was transformed into a live broadcast facility.

Coordinated by Susan Scherreik, director of the Center of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the event highlighted Seton Hall’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurial spirit among students. Scherreik and the student teams spent several months preparing through a series of networking events, mentoring sessions, and workshops designed to help them transform their creative ideas into viable business models.

"Pirates Pitch is a hallmark of innovation at Seton Hall, akin to our very own Shark Tank," said Scherreik. "This year, thanks to the TLTC team’s expertise and the latest audiovisual technology, we captured the excitement and tension of the event like never before. The professional quality of the livestream and recorded video allows students to experience the 25th annual Pirates Pitch at its best. We are immensely thankful for the TLTC’s dedication and exceptional work in bringing this event to life."

The Digital Media Team at the TLTC played a key role in leveraging the state-of-the-art technology in the University Center Studio. Their expertise, combined with support from Media Services, ensured the seamless integration of audio and visual components from the University Center Theatre to the studio for a full-featured live broadcast. Collaboration with Chris Aurilio, director of production/facilities for the College of Human Development, Culture, and Media, secured access to the necessary resources and equipment within the Theatre.

Students from the CHDCM also played significant roles in the production. SHUTV students Emily Flynn, Julianna Caliri and Christine Franco led the effort, managing everything from camera operations to stage management. Their professionalism and technical skill highlighted the real-world experience gained through Seton Hall’s media and communication programs.

Emily Flynn, a Class of 2026 student majoring in Visual Sound Media and Film Production at the CHDCM, and head of the social department for SHU TV, reflected on her experience at the Pirates Pitch event: "Pirates Pitch was a great experience and a big leap forward for SHU TV through our collaboration with the TLTC team. When we came in to help that day, I expected to assist as a camera operator. When Corey Howell asked if I had experience directing and was willing to direct the show, I was excited to show what I’ve learned in classes and while working at SHU TV.

The University Center TV Studio is not new to me. Once we were able to work in the space back in September 2024, I tried to learn as much as I could, gaining knowledge and asking around if I didn’t know how to operate or fix something. In December, the Theatre Council asked SHU TV if we could try recording their Christmas show. That was the first time we connected the NDI system in the Theatre in the Round with the NDI system in the TV Studio. So, coming into this project, I had some prior experience with both systems and was even able to offer insight to the crew because of that. Thank you so much for this opportunity for SHU TV, and I hope to work with TLTC on more projects," said Flynn.

The 2025 Pirates Pitch exemplified interdisciplinary collaboration and highlighted the technical and creative talents that students and staff bring to campus initiatives. Livestreamed on the University’s YouTube channel, the event allowed alumni, families, and the public to participate virtually. Both in-person and online audiences voted for their favorite pitch, awarding a $500 Audience Choice prize.

"Integrating cutting-edge technology between the University Theatre and our University Center Studio, we were able to facilitate an outstanding production for the 2025 Pirates Pitch event," said Christopher Petruzzi, director of Design and Digital Media. "Utilizing the Tricaster TC-1 for live switching and having cameras controlled remotely over the network allowed the Digital Media Team and SHUTV students to create a dynamic live broadcast. It was rewarding to see the SHUTV students in action, applying both their academic learning and practical experience from the studio to professionally produce and direct the entire show. This event not only showcased their own capabilities but also realized the potential of our technological resources to elevate university events and experiential learning activities."

Beyond spotlighting student entrepreneurs, this year’s production showcased Seton Hall’s ability to integrate technology into high-impact, real-world learning. It was a behind-the-scenes success and a truly collaborative achievement, making this the most immersive Pirates Pitch to date.

Categories: Science and Technology