The iCommunication Initiative
The largest gift in Ball State’s history launched the iCommunication initiative and solidified the university’s reputation as a key player in the digital media revolution. Indianapolis-based Lilly Endowment Inc. awarded Ball State the $20 million four-year grant in 2001. Over the years, the grant has funded educational and research initiatives to provide leadership and innovative content for digital communications. The iCommunication initiative has three components:
1. The Center for Media Design is a research, development and teaching program that has linked state-of-the-art design technology to media and communications fields.
2. The Global Media Network has established international networks for learning for scholars, students and professionals. The Internet-based videoconferencing system has connected Ball State classrooms with others in Asia, Australia, Europe, and hopefully in the Middle East and Africa.
3. The Media Studies Program has created courses allowing all Ball State graduates to improve media and technology literacy through courses in global communication.
This article originally appeared in the 03/01/2005 issue of THE Journal.