NDSU’s student-run campus television station Bison Information Network produced its first television newscast Dec. 10. The “SU TV News” was recorded in the brand new state-of-the-art Bison Information Network/Communication Department TV Studio Building, located at 1414 12th Ave. N.
The Bison Information Network was founded in August 2007 as an initiative of NDSU Student Government’s Technology Commission under the direction of Brian Fier, Peter Gregory and Mike Ostlie. Gregory has served as general manager for the past two years. A total of $248,000 in student fees was used to acquire equipment, the set and other furnishings. Approximately $225,000 was used to renovate the space.
“After seeing and participating in the production of the first newscast, I'm extremely proud of what has been done, the talent of NDSU's students and the energy of everyone,” said Gregory, a senior majoring in accounting who is set to graduate on Dec. 19. “The only regret I have is that I'm graduating and won't be able to see more of Bison Information Network in action, but I have all the confidence in the world that the Bison Information Network will be able to keep the momentum of this newscast going and go on to do great things.”
Rich Lodewyk, lecturer of communication and broadcast program director, said, “These are exciting times for both the students and the Department of Communication. The first ‘SU TV’ newscast is a chance for Bison Information Network to showcase their organization, but also a chance for students to realize the experience and opportunities they now have here at NDSU. I am excited that students are now given the opportunity to learn that much more about the television broadcasting business through the producing of their own newscast and other programs.”
The TV facilities include a video editing lab, control room, studio, equipment room and offices. According to Lodewyk, a number of new Department of Communication television broadcasting classes also have been added, including a television studio production class and a sports broadcasting class.
In addition to weekly half-hour newscasts, plans call for Bison Information Network to broadcast NDSU club sports and other student-produced shows.