Dr Addy sends me news of Ball State’s coordinated efforts in emerging media.

A major investment in emerging media by Ball State University promises to provide critically needed human capital and foster economic development across the state and region. The new $17.7 million Emerging Media Initiative (EMI) was unveiled by President Jo Ann M. Gora close on the heels of an announcement that Ball State also is launching a distinguished speaker and workshop series named in honor of its most prominent alumnus, CBS “Late Show” host David Letterman. The series will provide students regular, direct engagement with communications and emerging media leaders of national stature. Among those on tap for the program are legendary newsman Ted Koppel and “The Art of Innovation” author Tom Kelley.

Already Ball State programs in telecommunications, architecture and other disciplines, as well as pioneering ventures such as the Center for Media Design, enjoy broad recognition as leaders in emerging media applications. This latest commitment of resources will focus and accelerate the university’s expertise in this important and growing sector of the Indiana economy.

“Web 2.0 applications and related Internet-based communication and entertainment innovations are growing dynamically, spawning new businesses and media products,” said Jim Jay, president and chief executive officer of Indianapolis-based TechPoint. “Having a leading university lend a robust research capability to the sector, with an eye toward putting the results into the marketplace as soon as possible, is a great opportunity for Indiana. Ball State is a true asset in this effort.”