The Communication Arts Partners (CAPS) board was honored to welcome Nikki Schiefelbein this fall. CAPS members are essential assets to Communication Arts as they volunteer their time and contribute  knowledge to department initiatives, teaching, and research. With a seasoned career in writing and producing in Hollywood, Schiefelbein will be a valuable mentor to Communication Arts students and a critical resource in developing new creative programs within the department.

Schiefelbein moved to Los Angeles, California, shortly after graduating from the Radio, TV, Film track in Communication Arts. She explored numerous creative interests when she arrived in LA and quickly landed on writing as she dove deeper into her passion for the art. Schiefelbein nabbed her first showrunner assistant gig on One Tree Hill, and she utilized the opportunity to learn as much as she could about television writing and production. She earned a staff writer position on the show and rose through the staffing ranks over six of the show’s nine seasons.

Since One Tree Hill, Schiefelbein has enjoyed a robust career working on shows like The Ranch, The Umbrella Academy, and Mozart in the Jungle. She has always aimed to challenge herself in the projects she takes on, jumping from dramas to comedies seamlessly. Currently, she is completing her debut novel and continuing series development with major studios in Hollywood.

Schiefelbein joined the CAPS board after learning of Communication Arts’ need for more writing mentors for students.

“I have always tried to mentor young writers and give them advice because I didn’t have that when I moved to LA,” Schiefelbein said. “I’m from Wisconsin, I loved my experience at UW–Madison, and I want to see more kids from Wisconsin in these writers’ rooms.”

In addition to her mentorship goals, Schiefelbein is also eager to assist with the new 2026 summer program, UW Creative Careers in Hollywood. This opportunity will allow students to explore various creative careers, connect with industry professionals, and gain experience supporting and executing creative visions.

“Hollywood isn’t a place where you arrive fully formed, but if this program can take some of the guesswork out of where to start and offers kids the tools they need to get their feet in the door, well, that’s the goal.”

The UW Creative Careers in Hollywood program is just one way CAPS board members are currently assisting the department. Their skills and expertise are also integral in shaping fundraising initiatives and communication campaigns that are sure to make lasting impacts on the department in the years to come.

You can discover more about the CAPS board and their mission here.