Peter Sumby, operations director in the School of Communications, said he is excited to give students the opportunity to gain access to a new tool.

“It’s an environment that utilizes the natural surroundings, either outside or inside, and in many cases includes the production technology as part of the set,” said Sumby. “It really provides endless opportunities for shots and techniques during a show."

The open-air studio, located in the school’s atrium in the Center for Communications, Computing and Engineering, features advanced technology, including remote cameras, touchscreen switching controls and automated audio that is more advanced than many professional media operations.

With Sleeping Giant State Park serving as the backdrop, students will be able to work on a variety of projects and gain invaluable experience and knowledge with access to the 16-by-16-foot studio.

The introduction of this studio differentiates Quinnipiac from other institutions and provides the “wow” factor to prospective students, said Chris Roush, dean of the School of Communications.

“The studio gives our students access to the latest technology, and they experience what it’s like to be live on a remote set, which is basically what this set is,” said Roush. “We’re constantly looking to upgrade our technology so our students can hit the ground running when they graduate.”