Rekha Kakkar
Updated on: October 15, 2024 1:19 pm GMT
In a striking move to enhance storytelling education, the University of Alabama has opened the Holle Center for Communication Arts, dedicated to shaping the future of narrative artistry.
Opening of the Holle Center
The University of Alabama’s (UA) College of Communication and Information Sciences celebrated the launch of the Holle Center for Communication Arts, marking a significant addition to educational resources focused on modern storytelling. This $10 million project was made possible by a generous gift from the Holle Family Foundation and honors the legacy of Brig. Gen. Everett Hughes Holle, a distinguished alumnus known for his impactful career in broadcasting.
Located on the fourth floor of Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium, this center is adjacent to the Digital Media Center. The Holle Center is designed as an incubator and collaborative space, aiming to push the boundaries of traditional storytelling through innovative and arts-informed research.
Features of the Holle Center
The Holle Center is equipped with modern facilities to support various storytelling initiatives, including:
- A podcast studio for audio storytelling.
- Editing workspaces to refine visual narratives.
- A cyclorama, which serves as a panoramic backdrop for video productions.
Dr. Brian Butler, the Dean of the College of Communication and Information Sciences, stated, “The opening of the Holle Center is an important event for the College, creating fundamentally new opportunities for student learning, community engagement, and faculty scholarship.”
This new facility aims to empower students and faculty alike, encouraging partnerships that spotlight community narratives and amplify voices using emerging technologies
Legacy of Brig. Gen. Holle
The center is named in honor of Everett Hughes Holle, who graduated from UA in 1950. With a distinguished career as a broadcast communications major, Holle was actively involved in the university’s student newspaper and radio station. After graduation, he joined the Armed Forces as a radio/television/motion picture officer.
Holle’s 40-year tenure at WVTM-TV in Birmingham is particularly noteworthy. He earned a reputation as a dedicated leader not only within his field but also in the community, contributing significantly to various civic organizations. His family’s establishment of this center is a testament to his lasting impact on the communication arts.
Opportunities Offered
At the Holle Center, students will participate in a variety of programs, including workshops, special events, and exhibits. These initiatives aim to foster skills in:
- Critical thinking and ethical storytelling.
- Community engagement and arts-based research.
- Collaborating with award-winning industry professionals.
Dr. Robin Boylorn, an associate professor of communication studies, expressed excitement about the center’s goals. She mentioned that the Holle Center will utilize storytelling to explore issues of justice in today’s cultural landscape.
A Hub for Innovation
The Holle Center is not just a space for storytelling; it is an interdisciplinary hub for students and faculty to explore narratives from multiple perspectives. The center will serve as a bridge between education and the community, creating opportunities for outreach and engagement.
This facility highlights UA’s commitment to advancing knowledge and skills in communication arts, preparing students for future careers in an ever-evolving industry. As participants learn and grow within this rich environment, they will develop the tools necessary for innovative storytelling.
Community Impact
The Holle Center promises to be a vital resource, supporting storytelling that reflects the diverse experiences within Alabama and beyond. This aligns with UA’s broader mission to shape a better world through education and community service.
Dr. Butler emphasized the center’s importance, saying, “C&IS students and faculty will work with community partners from across the state to expand their reach and amplify their voices.”
As the Holle Center for Communication Arts opens its doors, it sets the stage for a new era of storytelling that integrates creativity, technology, and community values.
By establishing the Holle Center, UA not only honors a beloved figure in broadcasting but also commits to nurturing the next generation of storytellers. This blend of history, innovation, and community collaboration is set to make a lasting impact in Alabama’s educational landscape.
The Holle Center for Communication Arts is a place where people can learn and improve their communication skills. It offers fun programs and activities that help everyone express themselves better. Whether you want to speak in front of a crowd, write a story, or just have a good conversation, the center has something for you!
