Unlocking the Future: Schwab Hall's Cutting-Edge Communications Hub

The Communications Program at the university has undergone a transformative relocation, moving its television/broadcasting studio from Scotus Hall to the lower level of Schwab Hall. This strategic move not only consolidates the program's key facilities but also promises to elevate the student experience and foster a more collaborative learning environment.

Empowering the Next Generation of Communicators

Centralized Facilities Enhance Accessibility and Collaboration

The Communications Program's television studio and iMac computer lab are now co-located within the Schwab Hall, a move that promises to streamline the learning process and encourage greater interdisciplinary collaboration. "Co-location is always a good thing," remarked Kelly Rhodes, Chair of the Communications and Criminal Justice Department. "When you have facilities right at hand, it's much more likely that you'll use them." This newfound proximity between the studio and computer lab will enable students and faculty to seamlessly transition between these essential resources, fostering a more dynamic and efficient workflow.

Inspiring Student-Driven Projects and Creativity

The relocation of the television studio has also opened up new opportunities for students to explore their creative passions. Communications faculty members are hopeful that the updated studio space, which will also be utilized by various clubs within the Shields School of Business, will inspire students to engage in out-of-class, independent projects such as podcasts and recording sessions. "I love that they moved the studio over to Schwab," said senior Communications major Maddy Perry. "It will be a lot easier to use that space now, especially with it being swipe access." This enhanced accessibility and flexibility will empower students to take the reins of their learning and push the boundaries of their creativity.

Streamlining the Student Experience

The strategic placement of the television studio and computer lab within Schwab Hall has also addressed a longstanding challenge faced by students. Communications adjunct faculty member Matt Hankinson noted that students previously did not enjoy trekking from Schwab Hall to the former TV studio in Scotus during the winter months. "I love that they moved the studio over to Schwab," said Maddy Perry. "It will be a lot easier to use that space now, especially with it being swipe access." This enhanced accessibility and convenience will undoubtedly improve the overall student experience, allowing them to focus on their studies and creative pursuits without the added burden of navigating between multiple facilities.

Seamless Access and Security

The relocation of the Communications Program's facilities has also brought about improved security and access control. Swipe access to both the studio and the computer lab is now granted to all Communications majors, as well as other students who are enrolled in courses that utilize these spaces. This streamlined access system not only enhances the sense of ownership and belonging among the program's students but also ensures the safety and security of the valuable equipment and resources housed within these facilities.

A Collaborative Effort Overcoming Logistical Challenges

The relocation of the television studio was a collaborative effort that involved overcoming numerous logistical challenges. Rhodes explained that members of the Physical Plant had to install lighting, relocate and adjust the department's news desk and backdrop, cut out and remove some wall-mounted desks, and repurpose some of the furniture in the room. "We had to figure out how to format everything to fit the new space, which involved a lot of detailed work," said Rhodes. Despite these challenges, the team was able to successfully complete the project without incurring additional costs. "It didn't cost us money to do this project, just a lot of effort," said Hankinson, expressing gratitude to everyone involved in the transition.The Communications Program's relocation to Schwab Hall represents a significant milestone in the evolution of the university's educational landscape. By consolidating its key facilities and enhancing accessibility, the program is poised to empower the next generation of communicators, fostering a dynamic and collaborative learning environment that will undoubtedly inspire students to push the boundaries of their creativity and professional development.