Biography

Kristi brings over a decade of experience working in New York's media industry to the classroom emphasizing creativity, collaboration and real-world application. Her research bridges professional practice and scholarship, focusing on immersive storytelling and fan culture - highlighting the intersection of design, technology, and audience engagement.

Education

  • PhD in Media & Communication, Texas Tech University
  • MA in Film & TV Production, Long Island University Brooklyn
  • BA in Music Management, CUNY Baruch College

Awards & Recognitions

  • 2021: Communicator Award for The Promise Docuseries

Courses Taught

  • MMSC 304 Digital Media Production
  • MMSC 363 Digital Storytelling
  • MMSC 397 Special Topics: Immersive Storytelling
  • MMSC 406 Social and Digital Media Content Production
  • MMSC 340 Film Appreciation

Selected Publications, Articles & Presentations

  • Gatto, K. (2025, November). I Want It That Way: Experiencing & Understanding Immersive Concert Potential. [Paper presentation] To be presented at the Themed Experience and Attractions Academic Society Symposium, Orlando, FL.
  • Gatto, K. (2025, June). Around the World in 1 Hour: An Analysis of Environmental Storytelling and Immersive Design in Disney’s World Showcase. [Paper presentation] Visual Communication Conference, Estes Park, CO.
  • Gatto, K. (2025, April). Where We Are: Exploring Tactile Usage in Immersive Environments. [Paper presentation] Popular/American Culture Association Conference, New Orleans, LA.
  • Gatto, K. (2024). Ducks Fly Together: A Look at Disney+ as a Facilitator of Nostalgia and Transportation. In Perlich, J. & Whitt, D. (Eds.) The Disney+ Kingdom: Essays on Nostalgia, Representation and Branding. McFarland & Company, Inc., Publishers.
Areas of Expertise
immersive storytelling
theme park design
film production
digital storytelling
Departments
Mass Media and Strategic Communications
Office
112 Hall_Moody Admin