Saluki Athletics partners with College of Mass Communication and Media Arts to give students valuable work experience

The Southern Illinois University Department of Athletics and the SIUC College of Mass Communication and Media Arts (MCMA) are teaming up to give media production student's practical experience in producing in-venue content and live events at Saluki Stadium and the renovated SIU Arena.

Both major components of the Saluki Way project, the new stadium and renovated SIU Arena will feature video boards that will be used for graphics, video segments, introductions and replays to enhance the fan and student-athlete experience.

Students in the College of Mass Communication and Media Arts will have the opportunity to earn class credit while gaining experience in creating graphics, features and in-venue production for live sporting events. The class will be taught by Chris Hagstrom, the Director of Video Services in the Department of Athletics with oversight by the College of Mass Communication and Media Arts.

"The first year of this partnership was a fantastic experience for both the Department of Athletics and the College of Mass Communication and Media Arts," said Hagstrom. "I have always believed that the best experience comes from hands on, real world experience. The College of Mass Communication and Media Arts have always strived to bring that experience to its students. This partnership continues that philosophy and provide a great opportunity to SIU students."

The class will have a maximum enrollment of 15 students that will work independently on projects and training with Hagstrom in preparation for games, then the class will work as a production team for games. Students interested in signing up for the class can contact their departmental adviser.

MCMA Dean, Gary Kolb, comments, "this partnership with Athletics will yield valuable experience for our students and possibly become part of a new interdisciplinary specialization in sports media in the College. We are excited about the opportunity to help deliver the Saluki brand through exciting sports media production."

In addition to the class, the Department of Athletics offers two paid student positions to Mass Communication and Media Arts students. These students work with the Director of Video Services in day-to-day operations, brainstorming and creation of graphics and features, as well as game day productions.