Steinman Center’s new converged media center is a space built for collaboration and was created through collaboration. Two years ago, the College embarked on extensive renovations to create a space that promoted interaction between the student media outlets—ECTV-40, the Etownian and WWEC-FM. During the 2011-2012 Winter Break, the radio station moved to a more visible location, and a colorful student lounge with new furniture was added.
Since the project started, students and faculty and staff members have affected every aspect of the process from planning to the actual renovations. Architects Marshall Craft Associates created designs based on input from student media representatives and communications faculty members. During the summer, 10 engineering students worked with Facilities Management and Helm Construction to complete the changes, and communications students—ECTV-40 Station Manager Graham Lenker ’15 and WWEC FM Station Manager Ryan Carson ’15–were assigned to Steinman to rewire and set up equipment. “We moved, painted, rewired. Whoever needed help we were right there giving a hand,” said Carson.
Since starting at E-town in 2011, Carson has seen the evolution of the Steinman space. While the radio station, in which Carson closely works as station manager, was completed earlier in the renovation process, his interest in the space has not wavered. “It’s great to see how far we’ve come and that the College and department are concerned about student media and acknowledge its importance,” said Carson.
“It’s great to see how far we’ve come and that the College and department are concerned about student media and acknowledge its importance.”
Editor-in-chief of the Etownian, Jill Norris ’14, said of the new space, “I’m really looking forward to being able to work alongside other students with similar interests.” While each media outlet requires different skill sets and goals, Norris said, “a lot of creativity will be generated because of the converged media center.”
The new space has an open concept. Old windows were uncovered, allowing natural light to fill the area, and walls were removed to create a flow between the three student media spaces. The E-Media Center includes relocated and updated editing suites; the Etownian office, which was moved from Brossman Commons; new curtains and a light grid for the ECTV studio; an extended student lounge area; and a relocated student lab assistant office. Renovations were completed at the beginning of the fall semester. “We’ve created the space and are excited to see how it works and can’t wait to see how excited the students are,” said Dr. Kirsten Johnson, associate communications professor.