QU Receives Boost To Communication Program
Quincy University has received a major investment in its communication degree program with a $450,000 gift from Quincy Media Inc., the parent company of WGEM Radio and TV and the Quincy Herald-Whig.
“QMI is pleased to continue its ongoing support of Quincy University,” said Ralph Oakley, president and CEO of Quincy Media, Inc. “QU is a vital cog in the quality of life and infrastructure of Quincy and the entire region. We have supported the university for many, many years and are connected to them in a variety of ways including a number of our colleagues who have attended or graduated from QU and several members of our current staff serving as adjunct faculty.”
As a result of this latest gift, the communication department, located at QU’s North Campus, will undergo a major renovation that will feature a new state-of-the-art digital television studio. In addition, new production control room equipment and news integration software will be installed. This equipment and technology will prepare students for multi-platform news gathering and is the same industry-standard tools found in major media companies across the world. In 2012, QMI helped the university establish the QU Broadcast Center with a generous donation of digital equipment including HD cameras, a television control room switcher and editing stations.
“This investment will move our communication department to the next level. Our students will now have access to state-of-the-art industry standard technology,” said Dr. Ann Behrens, vice president of academic affairs. “The new equipment and resources made possible by this gift will complement our outstanding communication faculty who are extremely dedicated to student success.”
“Quincy University is worthy of our support and quite frankly the support of everyone in our region,” said Ralph Oakley. “Our contribution to the communication department will ensure that students graduate with skills and a well-rounded liberal arts education that are highly valued in the marketplace and lead to rewarding professional lives.”
Oakley is a 1980 graduate of Quincy University and served on the University’s Board of Trustees for ten years, including two terms as Chairman. His father, Thomas Oakley, also served on the Board and as Vice-Chair.
Founded in 1860 by Franciscan friars, Quincy University (www.quincy.edu) is a Catholic, co-educational, residential university offering undergraduate, graduate, and adult education programs that integrate liberal arts, active learning, practical experience, and Franciscan values. Quincy University’s intercollegiate sports are members of the NCAA Division II Great Lakes Valley Conference for men and women. For more information, please contact the Quincy University Office of Community Relations by calling (217) 228-5275.
Quincy Media Inc., owns and operates thirteen stations in twelve television markets, the New Jersey Herald Newspaper and a digital division in addition to the Quincy Herald-Whig and WGEM TV and Radio.