Mark TV

Mark Richards '09

Throughout his four years at MCLA, Mark Richards '09 of North Quincy, MA, also answered to the nickname "Regis," because of his desire for a career similar to that of TV host Regis Philbin of "Live with Regis and Kelly" and "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire."

Now serving as an intern at Walt Disney World in Orlando, FL, Richards is well on his way to becoming the next "Regis" at a show in the Epcot theme park.

Richards is the host of the game show "Where's the Fire?"  A presentation of Liberty Mutual Insurance, "Where's the Fire?" is the largest fire safety exhibit in the United States. It is located in the "Innoventions" pavilion, which focuses on technological advancements and their practical applications in daily life. The 4,000-square-foot interactive fire safety experience is designed to educate the daily visitors on the fire safety hazards that may appear in their own homes.

As the host of the show, Richards' duties include explaining the rules and giving families fire safety tips after the game is over.

"I jumped at the chance to be on stage hosting a game show," Richards says. "This is exactly what I wanted to do. I knew I couldn't sit behind a desk all day and push paper and fill out reports. I wanted something new and different every day and this is giving me that. It is something different and fun every day and every minute!"

In addition to hosting the show, Richards sometimes provides an extra set of hands at the venue.

"I love seeing how all the magic happens backstage before we go on stage and interact with the guests," he says. "I also get assigned other tasks, like greeting and assisting guests in finding their way through the park. That is a lot of fun because you meet so many different people!"

At MCLA, Richards' poise, professional demeanor, and easy sense of humor made it clear early on that he is well-suited to his chosen career. Whether he worked in front of the camera as he interviewed the college's president, Mary K. Grant, Ph.D., or behind the lens as he gave tips and encouragement to those less experienced in hosting a show, Richards' talent benefitted many MCLA productions.

"MCLA gave me exposure in front of the camera as well as in front of people," Richards says. "Both things have helped me here and I know they will help me in the future. I loved my hands-on experience from MCLA. I was able to get my feet wet from the very beginning and I was always able to learn something new."

Richards, who majored in English/communications with concentrations in broadcasting and journalism, would like to stay with the Disney Company for many years, either in the field of entertainment or in event planning.