The Center for Social Media showcases and analyzes media for public knowledge and action--media made by, for, and with publics to address the problems that they share. We pay particular attention to the evolution of documentary film and video in a digital era. With research, public events, and convenings, we explore the fast-changing environment for public media. The Center was founded in 2001 by Patricia Aufderheide, University Professor in the School of COmmunication at American University. As part of the School, the Center offers research assistantships, screenings, master classes, and volunteer opportunities to SOC students. The Center also has fellows assoicated with funded projects, but has no stand-alone funding for fellows.