While summer break is typically a time for rest and relaxation, the hard work, dedication, and accomplishments continued for CCIM students, faculty, and staff.

From trips abroad and summer classes to orientation and summer workshops, CCIM was as vibrant as ever this summer.

And while we are so thrilled to have everyone back on campus, let’s take a moment to celebrate everything we accomplished amidst recharging and taking some well-deserved breaks this past summer.

STUDENT NEWS

  • CICS students and Dr. Hesham Allam, Assistant Professor in the Center for Information & Communication Sciences, collaborated with TechPoint, a global software development and IT service firm, to create a report on AI and the Indiana Workforce. You can read their work here.   

FACULTY AND STAFF NEWS

  • Dr. Marcy Meyer, Associate Professor in the Department of Communication Studies, recently published the book, “Iconographic Research Poetry.” Released in July, the book instructs other scholars interested in this arts-based methodology. The books’ forward by Adrian Schoone, PhD argues the potential for arts-based iconographic research poetry to call out the divides and offer a bridge for understanding. Schoone ends his forward with the assertion that “I think this is wholly possible if we take the courage, as Meyer has, to begin with a break to the straight line.” Dr. Meyer lives her values, making sure knowledge and information is available to all. She has published this book in an open access format.  
  • On the last Friday before the start of the new semester, CCIM held its 2024 Faculty and Staff Awards. Multiple individuals were awarded for their tremendous teaching, outstanding work ethic, and amazing achievements. To read more about these awards and awardees visit the CCIM Digest Blog highlighting the 2024 CCIM Faculty and Staff Awards.
  • Several CCIM faculty were also recognized at Ball State’s Fall Opening Convocation. President Geoffrey Mearns invited these winners to the stage during his presentation to receive their awards:  
    • Outstanding Administrator Award 
      Dr. Kristen McCauliff 
      Interim Dean / Associate Professor of Communications Studies 
      College of Communication, Information, and Media 
    • Outstanding Advisor Award 
      Mr. Terry Heifetz 
      Senior Lecturer of Media 
      College of Communication, Information, and Media 
    • Lawhead Teaching Award 
      Ms. Mary Moore 
      Senior Lecturer of Communication Studies 
      College of Communication, Information, and Media 
  • Associate Dean Weiwu Zhang completed activities for the 2024 Scripps Howard Leadership Academy from July 21-25, 2024, at the Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University. The Scripps Howard Leadership Academy is an immersive leadership training program designed for higher education leaders in journalism and communication.  
     
  • Dr. Beth Messner’s Struggle for Freedom Exhibit was part of Muncie’s Juneteenth Celebration in McCulloch Park. This project began as a Virginia Ball Creative Inquiry class in Spring of 2023. The COMM 450 class in Spring 2024 augmented the project. The project is a public history exhibit that is centered on the narrative of the Underground Railroad. 
  • Assistant Professor for CICS Dr. Luis Orozco published an in-press article. The manuscript “Virtual and Augmented Reality: Applications for Adult Learners” has been accepted for publication in “Advances in Online Education: A Peer Reviewed Journal.” This is a peer-reviewed journal with an interdisciplinary approach, publishing best practice articles as well as theoretical and applied research and analysis, covering developments in virtual, distance, online, blended, and e-learning in a variety of technology-enhanced educational settings.   
  • Dr. Orozco also had papers accepted at two conferences. His work titled “Hispanic Immigrants and Self-Directed Learning: A Review of Affordable Technologies for Continuous Learning” was accepted into ATMAE 2024, which will be held in late October in Las Vegas, Nevada, and his paper “Civic AI: How Artificial Intelligence Supports Civic Engagement” was accepted into the Annual Civic Learning Symposium conference, which will be held in September.   
  • Dr. James Rediger’s immersive learning partnership with Inspire Academy is back after the pandemic. Ball State University students work with Inspire Academy students to develop leadership and effective communication skills. 
  • Dr. Scarlett Hester is this year’s Outstanding Teacher for the Department of Communication Studies. Her award was bestowed August 16th. 

VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

  • The United Way Day of Action is Friday, Sept. 6! There are plenty of projects on campus and in the community to get involved in, all you need to do is register. To register, visit this website. And, if you have questions, you can contact the Office of Community Engagement.
  • As always, there will be plenty of events throughout the semester from Homecoming and Family Weekend to Dean’s List and Commencement, so keep an eye out for email communications. For most college events, Brooke Himes or Kim McClure can be contacted for more information or questions.

UPCOMING EVENTS

  • The CCIM Dean’s List ceremony will be held in Emens Auditorum on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 9-11 a.m. Attendees should plan to check in at the event no later than 8:45 a.m. Contact Kim McClure with questions.