by Gregory Beechaum
(BEAVER FALLS, Pa.) – Since returning to campus we have seen a lot of changes taking place around Beaver Falls. Sheetz is getting a new upgrade, which may be a big deal to some students with the late night munchies. However, more closely related to us, the Integrated Media Center (IMC) is also being renovated. These developments are causing somewhat of a stir on campus and those involved with the changes believe that this can bring about a new personality for a long-time fixture at Geneva College.
The construction will result in more parking spaces between the College Hill RP Church and IMC, and an improved appearance that will make volunteering and studying in the IMC more attractive. According to Tim Baird, Assistant Vice President of Operations and Human Resources, the construction process includes renovating the standing seam roof and replacing and painting three doors/frames. The college is also applying new stone to the exterior so that it is more attractive and matches other buildings on campus.
Dr. Richard Talbert, Assistant Professor in Communication, oversees the Integrated Media emphasis and worked with Geneva Administration to plan the renovation project. “This is an important academic building for the Communication Department,” and adds that “students are doing some really good work here, so it’s worth improving the building to better meet their needs.”
In the past, the Integrated Media Center was the WGEV Radio Station where Geneva students and faculty produced radio broadcasts. Today, students are less interested in broadcast radio, primarily because there are new media channels capturing their attention. So, WGEV was closed nearly three years ago due to lack of student interest.
Currently, the IMC is used for a number of projects on campus, most notably are livestreaming Convocation, Commencement, and the upcoming Presidential Inauguration. Involved students are getting hands-on experience in multiple facets of the mediated communication process. The renovations – inside and out – are making the IMC building more inviting and enabling greater utilization of its capabilities.
Looking forward, students can continue activities that are already a part of the program and take part in new opportunities. Dr. Talbert says that he is trying to refresh the mentality surrounding the program through a three phase process: rebuilding, stabilizing, and growing. This is the year the program is looking to grow.
“One thing we hope to move toward is some sort of Geneva College Television,” he reveals. “And that is in the brainstorming stages.” All of the improvements being made to the IMC are an investment that will enable growth and future opportunities.
The IMC is not only for Communication students, Dr. Talbert stresses, but for anyone who is interested in the idea of working with social media, dabbling with video and audio production, or believes the camera is their best friend.
So, Geneva, keep your eyes wide open on the IMC because great things are coming soon from this department. And if you wish to be a part of them, you can contact Dr. Talbert.
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