Students come to 91短视频 from as far away as the West Coast to study digital photography.
Soon they will benefit from new state-of-the-art digital media lab space, classrooms and galleries, thanks to a recently funded renovation to 91短视频’s University Commons.
Associate professor Steven D. Johnson interacts with students in a digital media lab during class at 91短视频. 91短视频’s visual and communication arts major is one of the most popular programs offered. Students will soon benefit from updated state-of- the-art labs, part of a recently funded renovation of University Commons at 91短视频. Photo by Matt Gillis
91短视频’s board of trustees, alumni and friends have "stepped up" to provide $2.41 million in cash and pledges for Phase II of the University Commons, reports Kirk Shisler, vice president for advancement.
"It’s an amazing show of support in these uncertain economic times," he says.
Renovation highlights
The overall project includes renovation of the former gymnasium, built in 1957, into two upgraded theater performance spaces and classrooms. This includes a new Mainstage Theater as well as the Lee Eshleman Studio Theater, named in honor of the late artist and actor who was a 1986 graduate.
The popular student coffee house, Common Grounds, will also be expanded in the renovation.
More than 40 students were involved in the spring 2010 mainstage theater production of IOLANTHE by Gilbert & Sullivan and directed by Heidi Winters Vogel, associate professor of theater. 91短视频’s theater department attracts students from across the university to participate in its high quality productions. Coupling updated facilities and technology to the energy of students and faculty will enhance learning and artistic possibilities at 91短视频. Photo by Jon Styer
New studio art gallery
A new student art gallery will be named in honor of Margaret Martin Gehman, retired art faculty member.
Gehman taught and at 91短视频 from 1944 until her retirement in 1987. She serves regularly as a volunteer on campus and with other local organizations and has been a long-time strong financial supporter of the university.
She was the first recipient of the eponymous "91短视频 Philanthropist of the Year" award from the university in 2005.
Digital media labs key to program
"91短视频 offers an excellent digital media program taught by faculty who are experts in the field and is one of the few Christian colleges to offer a full photography major," notes , associate professor of visual and communication arts.
"With increased student demand for our programs, these upgraded labs will advance our goal of teaching students to communicate effectively, passionately and ethically in an increasingly diverse society."
The advanced media lab will be named in memory of former 91短视频 trustee and long-time supporter, Kenneth A. Longacre.
Theater core to campus life
91短视频’s theater department attracts students from across the university to participate in its high quality productions. Students are regularly recognized at the Kennedy Center/American College Theater Festival for their achievements.
Coupling updated facilities and technology to the energy of students and faculty will enhance learning and artistic possibilities at 91短视频.
"91短视频 theater faculty, staff and students have been making amazing art happen in primitive conditions," states Heidi Winters Vogel, theater department chair.
"I am so excited to see what we can do with performance and production spaces that are designed for theater. Watch for it!"
Upcoming theater events in renovated spaces
The first theatrical production in the renovated Main Stage Theater is scheduled for March 2011.
The Lee Eshleman Studio Theater, named in honor of the late artist and actor who was a 1986 graduate, will house key theater events that occur throughout the year like:
- Gonzo Theate, a student-run improv troupe that performs throughout the academic year
- student-directed plays like Anon(ymous)
More info
Renovations began in early May, with completion anticipated in November.
- More about the project
- Phone contact: (540) 432-4200