STUDENT EXCELLENCE
SSU-TV Stages First Live Webcasts in Station's History

SSU-TV, Sonoma State University’s student-run campus television station, took a major step forward this month when students successfully produced the first live webcasts in the station’s history., The occasions were two women’s volleyball matches on October 2 and 9. SSU-TV students partnered with the athletic department to stage the live productions.
"For the past two years, we’ve been focused on getting the technology in place to make live broadcasts a reality," said Ed Beebout, assistant professor of Communication Studies and advisor to SSU-TV. "However, I also knew it would take a dedicated group of students to make it work. I was totally impressed with the poise and professionalism of the SSU-TV crew in executing these webcasts. It was hard to believe they had never done this before. This opens the door to a wide range of possibilities, including live newscasts in the near future," he said.
SSU-TV student general manager Tara Cheitlin spearheaded the project, which included three camera operators, a director, a video switcher and on-air talent. The all-student crew also spent hours of preparation to make sure the webcasts came off without a hitch. “There is nothing like the thrill of a live broadcast," Cheitlin said. “It’s exhilarating, fast-paced, and extremely fun. “It takes intense teamwork to create a live broadcast. Our SSU-TV team is… hard working, professional and takes initiative," she added.
The inaugural webcasts were a dream come true for senior Gary Day, who provided live commentary for the matches, and hopes to work in the sports broadcasting field someday. “This is a big deal not only for SSU-TV, but for the entire campus as well,” Day said. “It could also mark the beginning of larger scale live broadcasts for the future that will put SSU on the map as a major communications and media educational resource."
Beebout echoed Day’s hopes for the future of the SSU-TV. "Our first priority is giving students an environment that will help them develop the necessary skills to find jobs in video production, television and webcasting. But we also hope to expand our service to the University by bringing campus events and issues to a wider audience," he said. SSU-TV is available in the dorms on channel 27 as well as on the web. It also features a wide variety of student films, entertainment programs as well as news and information.



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