NEWS

NEWBERRY — The Newberry College communications program cut the ribbon Tuesday on upgrades to its longtime home.

Over the summer, the Langford Communications Center saw a host of state-of-the-art improvements to enhance students’ learning and experiential opportunities. The 29-year-old facility houses television and radio studios, classrooms and offices, used to educate students in the broadcasting, journalism and public relations fields.

“These upgrades have been a long time coming, and we are honored and thankful for the opportunity to better our facilities,” said Dr. Jodie Peeler, professor of communications and communications program coordinator. “We believe these changes will make a real difference in the careers and lives of our students.”

Unveiled improvements included:

• Repairs and upgrades to the television studio’s main set
• Installation of high-definition television equipment in the studio control room
• Conversion of two first-floor offices into one classroom, complete with new furniture and carpeting
• Remodeling of a seminar room, including installation of a custom-built conference table

Associate Development Officer Jim Hale ’63 gifted funds for desks and chairs for the new downstairs classroom. Peeler constructed the 4-foot-by-16-foot conference table with a grant from the Newberry College Women’s League.

Also in attendance was Gordon Henry, who came to Newberry in 1969 as public relations and sports information chief, and taught decades of photography and journalism students until his retirement in 1996.

The center was constructed in 1990 with a bequest from 1917 graduate Herman Sterling Langford.