Mass Communication Program Celebrates New Grant

By Kiera Hood

Over the years, Montevallo's Department of Mass Communication has been producing their online newscast, Falcon Weekly. While the department has gotten new cameras, microphones, and monitors something in the studio had been overlooked. The studio lights.



New LED TV Studio lights

While many students seemed to be at ease in front of the camera, sweating is something that they considered a common factor for reporting in the television studio.

 However, many of the professors within the department along with Dr. Bruce Finklea felt as if there was something that needed to be done.
Not only that, but students Austin Gates and Courtney Soumeillan had something to say about the lights.

"I mean you could literally feel the sweat dripping" said Courtney. Austin also questioned if a suit was his best option for clothing as he sat at the news desk.

Falcon Weekly Anchors in the studio

With a little strategic planning, the professors in the department realized that there was an easy way to fix the problem; apply for a Green Fund Grant through the University's budget.

This plan worked out for the best for current students and future students of the Department.

The Montevallo Mass Communication Department was awarded $6474 to help reduce energy consumption in the TV studio. The lights can be adjusted in temperature and brightness, unlike the old studio lights.

The Department is looking to apply for more grants to help the entire studio become more energy efficient.