Starting last year, before the start of the fall 2024 semester, Ball State’s CCIM decided to take on a large project to enhance and renovate studio spaces located in the Ball Communication building. The goal was to ensure these spaces meet industry standards so we can create studios that improve the project creation that occurs behind the camera.  

Jerry Pierce was one of the people behind this movement and has additionally been working with CCIM on the technical side for the last 10 years. During this project, Pierce collaborated with the CCIM Dean, MDIA department chair, and faculty team to consult and advise on the selection of the appropriate technology for the studio based on available funding to meet the current and future needs of their students.  

This project is monumental for the MDIA department and CCIM. Students, staff, and faculty all have opportunities to work in industry-grade studios and create professional projects to showcase their hard work and skills.  

Because of the powerful impact this project has on Cardinals across campus, it was nominated for a Regional Emmy award in Technical Achievement. With pride, the Studio Renovations team took home the award, and you can still hear them celebrating! 

“For our project team to win an Emmy for this work is not something I ever expected,” Pierce said. “It certainly honors the hard work the whole team put into this project. I am very humbled by the award and excited that the current and future students of the Department of Media will benefit greatly from the project’s work.”