Section C: Information About the Resources of the Program
C-01. Library Holdings and Other Learning Resource Tools
C-02. Technological Currency of Classroom, Learning Facilities Compared to
Similar Academic Units
Sections C-01 and C-02 are combined here because the issues of library holdings and resource tools are so closely aligned.
California State University-Fullerton has a strong and supportive Division of Information Technology that provides all departments, faculty, staff and students with the tools needed to be successful. The resources made available to the Department of Communications appear to be mostly comparable to those of other academic programs across campus. This section of the CEPR Application will highlight the resources available, and the challenges that are present, in this order:
- Library Holdings and Campus Connectivity
- Faculty Offices, Technology, and Classroom Space
- Computer Labs and Support
- Broadcast Studios and Other Student Media
- PRactical ADvantage Communications
- Recent Equipment Upgrades
- Instructional Space Challenges
Library Holdings and Campus Connectivity
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CSUF’s Pollak Library has been subject to extensive modernization and expansion in recent years. In all, more than $25 million has been invested by the University in improvements and modernization.
The library holds more than 300 print and electronic books and more than 40 journals specifically on the topic of public relations or integrated communications. In addition to a number of multidisciplinary electronic resources for the university at large, the Library currently maintains 40 communication databases for the Department of Communications.
Librarian John Hickok, assigned to the Department of Communications as its specialized librarian, has created subdivisions of databases dedicated to each of the Department’s concentration areas, including 17 databases identified as highly relevant to the Public Relations Concentration. In collaboration with public relations faculty, Hickok also creates individual database and library resource sheets for each individual public relations course. Linked here is a sample of one of these resource sheets. Hickok also conducts workshops for students in each course on how to use the online and hard copy books and journals in the library.
The library holds more than 300 print and electronic books and more than 40 journals specifically on the topic of public relations or integrated communications. In addition to a number of multidisciplinary electronic resources for the university at large, the Library currently maintains 40 communication databases for the Department of Communications.
Librarian John Hickok, assigned to the Department of Communications as its specialized librarian, has created subdivisions of databases dedicated to each of the Department’s concentration areas, including 17 databases identified as highly relevant to the Public Relations Concentration. In collaboration with public relations faculty, Hickok also creates individual database and library resource sheets for each individual public relations course. Linked here is a sample of one of these resource sheets. Hickok also conducts workshops for students in each course on how to use the online and hard copy books and journals in the library.
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A faculty eBook library customized for Communications faculty is available from the home page of the CSUF portal. This is just one example of resources available quickly and easily for faculty members.
During Coronavirus, the Library staff and Instructional Technology staff worked wonders to keep students and faculty technologically connected. Here are some examples:
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Faculty Offices, Technology, and Classroom Space
The Department of Communications is located on the fourth floor of the College Park building, on the same floor as the Dean’s Office and The Department of Human Communication Studies. The building also houses the university’s President and Provost’s offices, as well as Human Resources, Diversity and Inclusion and other administrative offices. There are classrooms on the first floor and computer labs in the basement.
All full-time COMM faculty have private offices in College Park. Part-time faculty are split between three shared offices, also in College Park.
The faculty have access to a wealth of technological resources to assist with their teaching, scholarship, and service responsibilities. All CSUF faculty members are provided with an office desktop computer, a “rollout” laptop computer and an iPad. The hardware is refreshed or replaced regularly by the University. Having up-to-date technology for distance communication with colleagues and students is never an issue.
Even before the COVID pandemic, the Department was conducting some small group and committee meetings via Zoom and conference calling. Each faculty member has portal access to Dropbox and Google Drive to archive and collaborate on documents. Each faculty member has access to a Canvas community (previously housed in Moodle/Titanium) where Department policies, assessment information, syllabi, travel documents and other essential documents and links are available for review. All these resources foster collaboration on all issues related to teaching, research, and service.
Most of the courses from the Department of Communications are held in one of four first-rights scheduling classrooms around campus, two of which are in College Park and two of which are elsewhere on campus. Large lectures are held in large classrooms across campus to which the Department has limited first-rights scheduling access.
All full-time COMM faculty have private offices in College Park. Part-time faculty are split between three shared offices, also in College Park.
The faculty have access to a wealth of technological resources to assist with their teaching, scholarship, and service responsibilities. All CSUF faculty members are provided with an office desktop computer, a “rollout” laptop computer and an iPad. The hardware is refreshed or replaced regularly by the University. Having up-to-date technology for distance communication with colleagues and students is never an issue.
Even before the COVID pandemic, the Department was conducting some small group and committee meetings via Zoom and conference calling. Each faculty member has portal access to Dropbox and Google Drive to archive and collaborate on documents. Each faculty member has access to a Canvas community (previously housed in Moodle/Titanium) where Department policies, assessment information, syllabi, travel documents and other essential documents and links are available for review. All these resources foster collaboration on all issues related to teaching, research, and service.
Most of the courses from the Department of Communications are held in one of four first-rights scheduling classrooms around campus, two of which are in College Park and two of which are elsewhere on campus. Large lectures are held in large classrooms across campus to which the Department has limited first-rights scheduling access.
Computer Labs and Support
The Department has first rights to five recent-model Intel Mac computer lab classrooms in the College Park building (rooms 16, 18, 19, 22, and 23), as well as a small photo studio. In total, these rooms have 102 workstations.
The computers are set up with the most up-to-date Apple operating system and Apple, Microsoft, Adobe and other third-party software, capable of handling graphics and web design, video and audio editing, statistical and other projects. Typically, the software on these machines is updated every summer by staff from the Division of Informational Technology. The labs are also equipped with black-and-white laser printers as well as ceiling-mounted LCD projectors and audio systems.
The five computer labs are dedicated to the Department of Communications and are in operation during weekdays from 8 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. (5 p.m. on Fridays).
Department of Communications students and faculty are supported by two full-time Information Technology staff members and two or more student assistants.
The five computer labs are dedicated to the Department of Communications and are in operation during weekdays from 8 a.m. to 9:45 p.m. (5 p.m. on Fridays).
Department of Communications students and faculty are supported by two full-time Information Technology staff members and two or more student assistants.
Broadcast Studios and Other Student Media
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The Daily Titan’s newsroom, advertising sales office and multimedia production room are on the sixth floor of the College Park building.
COMM has access to state-of-the-art broadcast facilities in the basement of Pollak Library, including two fully equipped studios and control room, and an adjacent student computer lab.
Titan TV creates a variety of documentary programs and talk shows with student staff, producers, writers, editors and volunteers. Students are encouraged to get involved at any level. Titan TV airs over Channel 98 on Time Warner Cable and AT&T U-Verse in Fullerton, Placentia, Santa Ana, Buena Park, Seal Beach, and Newport Beach. A student-produced TV news program airs every Monday and Wednesday at 5 p.m.
The studio production space can be used by other classes and student groups as needed. For example, PRactical ADvantage Communications made use of the studio and equipment in 2020, when the agency received a $2,000 grant to produce a First Amendment video series. All Communications students are encouraged to get involved in television and radio productions at Titan Communications to gain leadership, management, producing and reporting experience in a collaborative and meaningful way - and to build portfolios that will assist in entry to the career marketplace post-commencement.
Titan Radio provides a lab and learning environment for classes, and is managed and staffed with more than 70 students and volunteers. Programming can be heard online and over outdoor speakers that line the sidewalk through the campus core. All types of entertainment and news programming are offered.
COMM has access to state-of-the-art broadcast facilities in the basement of Pollak Library, including two fully equipped studios and control room, and an adjacent student computer lab.
Titan TV creates a variety of documentary programs and talk shows with student staff, producers, writers, editors and volunteers. Students are encouraged to get involved at any level. Titan TV airs over Channel 98 on Time Warner Cable and AT&T U-Verse in Fullerton, Placentia, Santa Ana, Buena Park, Seal Beach, and Newport Beach. A student-produced TV news program airs every Monday and Wednesday at 5 p.m.
The studio production space can be used by other classes and student groups as needed. For example, PRactical ADvantage Communications made use of the studio and equipment in 2020, when the agency received a $2,000 grant to produce a First Amendment video series. All Communications students are encouraged to get involved in television and radio productions at Titan Communications to gain leadership, management, producing and reporting experience in a collaborative and meaningful way - and to build portfolios that will assist in entry to the career marketplace post-commencement.
Titan Radio provides a lab and learning environment for classes, and is managed and staffed with more than 70 students and volunteers. Programming can be heard online and over outdoor speakers that line the sidewalk through the campus core. All types of entertainment and news programming are offered.
PRactical ADvantage Communications
For ten years, PRactical ADvantage Communications had 800 square feet of dedicated space in two rooms at the Irvine Center Campus. Many COMM courses were scheduled at Irvine, and it was possible for a COMM public relations student to complete an entire program there. However, during the early months of the Coronavirus pandemic, the University identified the Irvine Campus as an economic challenge. Within weeks, the campus was closed and sold by the University. The Dean’s Office acknowledged responsibility for locating space for the agency in College Park, and in the summer of 2021 the agency was moved to two College Park rooms (250-13 and 250-15), which together are approximately 60% of the space that was allocated at Irvine.
However, as of December 2021 the agency is not able to unpack or have students occupy the rooms. Room 250-13 has been determined to not meet the fire code for classroom space. The issue of permanent, dedicated space for PRactical ADvantage Communications is unresolved at this time. The agency operated in Fall 2021 with just one section, in Zoom mode.
However, as of December 2021 the agency is not able to unpack or have students occupy the rooms. Room 250-13 has been determined to not meet the fire code for classroom space. The issue of permanent, dedicated space for PRactical ADvantage Communications is unresolved at this time. The agency operated in Fall 2021 with just one section, in Zoom mode.
250-15, intended for agency administrative space, equipment storage, and video edit bay.
250-13, intended for agency course meeting space, with 14 computer stations - does not meet fire code.
250-05, existing conference room for Student Success Center, to be used "temporarily" for agency meetings.
Agency furniture that does not fit in 250-13 or 250-15 is to be relocated to 250-09 and 250-14, although these are not secured spaces.
250-13, intended for agency course meeting space, with 14 computer stations - does not meet fire code.
250-05, existing conference room for Student Success Center, to be used "temporarily" for agency meetings.
Agency furniture that does not fit in 250-13 or 250-15 is to be relocated to 250-09 and 250-14, although these are not secured spaces.
Recent Equipment Upgrades
The Department has invested significantly in student equipment in recent years. Some examples: Between 2017 and 2020, PRactical ADvantage Communications was granted miscellaneous course fee (MCF) funds to purchase 14 new Mac computers for the agency lab in Irvine. Additional MCF funds paid for $10,000 worth of video field production equipment (camera, tripods, lights, and microphones) and a state-of-the-art edit bay. The agency workspace was upgraded with new tables, chairs, and a conference table purchased with foundation funds. Finally, MCF funds paid for $2,500 worth of toner cartridges to support a new large-format color printer purchased with foundation funds in 2017.
Elsewhere in the Department, MCF funds allowed the purchase of backpack journalism kits for all students to use in COMM 325 (Multimedia Journalism) as well as mobile reporting kits for all students, and higher-end cameras for students in journalism courses.
Elsewhere in the Department, MCF funds allowed the purchase of backpack journalism kits for all students to use in COMM 325 (Multimedia Journalism) as well as mobile reporting kits for all students, and higher-end cameras for students in journalism courses.
Instructional Space Challenges
Across the CSUF campus, inadequate classroom and laboratory space is a big problem as CSUF enrollment continues to increase, and no new classroom buildings are under construction or planned. For all practical purposes, it has become impossible to schedule new special needs classes (such as classes that require computer labs) in the 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. time block, as there is simply too much competition from other programs for valuable space. This is a problem facing nearly all academic units on campus.
The existing basement College Park computer lab classrooms available to the Department of Communications could be characterized as satisfactory, but inadequate for long-term program growth. The rooms are cramped, windowless, well-worn spaces. There are valid concerns about emergency exits (the basement has only two emergency exits). Many of the same issues are noted in regard to the standard classrooms on the first floor of College Park and elsewhere on campus. College Park has no easily accessible staircase to upper floors; all students needing access to classrooms, department offices or faculty offices must use the elevators along with staff members who use the elevators to access business offices on upper floors.
Students frequently complain about cramped quarters in classrooms, and this continuing problem is exacerbated by Coronavirus fears. There’s simply no way to allow ‘social distancing’ in the vast majority of classrooms at CSUF.
The Department of Communications has provided the administration with requests for additional space to meet its needs. Requests have been made in 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021.
In December 2018, then Dean Ed Fink announced the new allocation of approximately 4,100 square feet on the second floor of College Park for programs and units within the College of Communications. The new space allocation came after several years of advocacy by various stakeholders from the academic departments within the College of Communications for allocation of space in College Park vacated by other university offices that moved to Titan Hall, a recently-purchased building renovated for administrative use.
At a meeting with Provost Kari Knutsen Miller on July 11, 2018, all four department chairs from the College advocated for their needs for new classroom and laboratory space. The chairs indicated that space needs for the academic departments within the College had gone unaddressed too long and needed to be raised higher on the priority list of the dean and the administration. At a meeting with President Fram Virjee on September 27, 2018, all four department chairs again voiced unaddressed space needs as their overriding concern. These 2018 meetings with the Provost and President were the latest in a line of meetings with various provosts and assistant and associate vice presidents dating back several years.
Final space allocations were made by the College of Communications Dean’s Office in spring 2021. Two Department priorities were met: giving offices to all full-time faculty and relocating part-time faculty to the College Park building. However, much of the new space was allocated to other departments and units, while some space was reserved for common use.
A synthesis of unit reports about space needs identifies the following as unmet needs: an additional computer lab for digital skills courses (the Department repurposed a student work space as a smaller computer lab to meet course scheduling needs); dedicated space for Department student organizations; dedicated space for COMM Week and Tusk magazine, and dedicated space for graduate students.
As already noted, PRactical ADvantage Communications was granted space in College Park, but the offices as presently built out are unusable for instructional purposes due to fire code violation issues. The future of the agency is in question because the faculty see dedicated space for this critical high-impact practice program to be non-negotiable.
The existing basement College Park computer lab classrooms available to the Department of Communications could be characterized as satisfactory, but inadequate for long-term program growth. The rooms are cramped, windowless, well-worn spaces. There are valid concerns about emergency exits (the basement has only two emergency exits). Many of the same issues are noted in regard to the standard classrooms on the first floor of College Park and elsewhere on campus. College Park has no easily accessible staircase to upper floors; all students needing access to classrooms, department offices or faculty offices must use the elevators along with staff members who use the elevators to access business offices on upper floors.
Students frequently complain about cramped quarters in classrooms, and this continuing problem is exacerbated by Coronavirus fears. There’s simply no way to allow ‘social distancing’ in the vast majority of classrooms at CSUF.
The Department of Communications has provided the administration with requests for additional space to meet its needs. Requests have been made in 2015, 2016, 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021.
In December 2018, then Dean Ed Fink announced the new allocation of approximately 4,100 square feet on the second floor of College Park for programs and units within the College of Communications. The new space allocation came after several years of advocacy by various stakeholders from the academic departments within the College of Communications for allocation of space in College Park vacated by other university offices that moved to Titan Hall, a recently-purchased building renovated for administrative use.
At a meeting with Provost Kari Knutsen Miller on July 11, 2018, all four department chairs from the College advocated for their needs for new classroom and laboratory space. The chairs indicated that space needs for the academic departments within the College had gone unaddressed too long and needed to be raised higher on the priority list of the dean and the administration. At a meeting with President Fram Virjee on September 27, 2018, all four department chairs again voiced unaddressed space needs as their overriding concern. These 2018 meetings with the Provost and President were the latest in a line of meetings with various provosts and assistant and associate vice presidents dating back several years.
Final space allocations were made by the College of Communications Dean’s Office in spring 2021. Two Department priorities were met: giving offices to all full-time faculty and relocating part-time faculty to the College Park building. However, much of the new space was allocated to other departments and units, while some space was reserved for common use.
A synthesis of unit reports about space needs identifies the following as unmet needs: an additional computer lab for digital skills courses (the Department repurposed a student work space as a smaller computer lab to meet course scheduling needs); dedicated space for Department student organizations; dedicated space for COMM Week and Tusk magazine, and dedicated space for graduate students.
As already noted, PRactical ADvantage Communications was granted space in College Park, but the offices as presently built out are unusable for instructional purposes due to fire code violation issues. The future of the agency is in question because the faculty see dedicated space for this critical high-impact practice program to be non-negotiable.
C-03. Budget Allocations Compared to Similar Academic Units
The process through which the Department of Communications develops its budget has varied over time, largely as a result of changing practices within the Division of Academic Affairs and the College of Communications. The vast majority of the Department’s budget, about 98%, is dedicated to salary and benefits of faculty and staff.
This section of the CEPR Application will organize budget information as follows:
This section of the CEPR Application will organize budget information as follows:
- Top-Down Budget Planning and Allocation
- FTES and Department Allocations
- Other Sources of Funding
- COMM Budget Table, FY 2018-2019, 2019-2020, 2020-2021
Top-Down Budget Planning and Allocation
Over the past six years, there has been extensive change in leadership at the University level. In that time period, the University has had two Presidents and four Provosts. There have been many administrative changes within the Division of Finance and Administration. The College of Communications has had four Deans in six years. The budgeting process at the University level seems to be in a constant state of flux depending on the current leadership and its priorities.
The Department of Communications reported in its 2014-2015 self study that in previous years, the Department was not always provided budget plans to determine what could be spent at the start of each academic year. Beginning in July 2014, a new CSUF Provost instituted a model of budgeting that provided college and department-specific budgets at the start of each academic year. That model provided clarity and transparency at the start of each fiscal year, and that model continued through about the 2018-2019 academic year. In more recent years, budget models have changed, and practices within the Division and College continue to evolve.
At a macro level, the Department is dependent on allocations from the College of Communications, which in turn is dependent on allocations from the Division of Academic Affairs, which in turn is dependent on allocations from the University, which in turn is dependent on allocations from the CSU System, which in turn is dependent in part on allocations from the California Legislature.
It is important to note that California State University-Fullerton has consistently ranked the lowest among the CSU System campuses in funding per full-time equivalent student. The disparity costs CSUF millions of dollars in potential operating revenues each year. This situation remains unchanged from the time of COMM’s last CEPR Application in 2013-2014.
The Department of Communications reported in its 2014-2015 self study that in previous years, the Department was not always provided budget plans to determine what could be spent at the start of each academic year. Beginning in July 2014, a new CSUF Provost instituted a model of budgeting that provided college and department-specific budgets at the start of each academic year. That model provided clarity and transparency at the start of each fiscal year, and that model continued through about the 2018-2019 academic year. In more recent years, budget models have changed, and practices within the Division and College continue to evolve.
At a macro level, the Department is dependent on allocations from the College of Communications, which in turn is dependent on allocations from the Division of Academic Affairs, which in turn is dependent on allocations from the University, which in turn is dependent on allocations from the CSU System, which in turn is dependent in part on allocations from the California Legislature.
It is important to note that California State University-Fullerton has consistently ranked the lowest among the CSU System campuses in funding per full-time equivalent student. The disparity costs CSUF millions of dollars in potential operating revenues each year. This situation remains unchanged from the time of COMM’s last CEPR Application in 2013-2014.
Source: The Daily Titan
FTES and Department Allocations
At the time of this Application, most funding allocations to the Department of Communications are determined by budget models that use COMM’s full-time equivalent students, or FTES. As enrollments continue to drop and the Department has no input in the admissions process, the Department is seeing a corresponding drop in funding. Below are some examples of impacts that result from this.
Prior to 2019, budgeting models allowed for about 15 course releases per year at the Department’s discretion for reassigned time for COMM faculty. These releases could be assigned for additional work on Department needs, including assessment and advising. The Department Chair put out calls for proposals and solicitations to the full-time faculty for those course releases. In recent years, the changing budget model and allocations has forced the elimination of much of that assigned time.
The changing budget model and allocations has also reduced the OE&E funds provided for Department operating expenses for items such as supplies, equipment, and faculty travel.
The Department makes the most of its limited resources by prioritizing needs identified in the strategic goals. At the same time, the Department has clearly identified priorities (addressed in the strategic plan) that include restoration of funding for basic costs of operation; maintenance of travel support that would fund at least one conference-related trip per faculty member per academic year; restoration of eliminated faculty assigned time; and increased resources to allow needed physical space for instruction and student program use.
CSUF’s focus on funding models based on full-time equivalent students (FTES) underscores the need for the Department to maintain, if not increase, the number of COMM majors. But because the University has a centralized admissions system, Department funding is ultimately dependent on administrative calibration of admissions to maintain predictability in enrollments.
Because there are limited funds with discretionary control at the Department level, there is no Department of Communications budget committee.
Prior to 2019, budgeting models allowed for about 15 course releases per year at the Department’s discretion for reassigned time for COMM faculty. These releases could be assigned for additional work on Department needs, including assessment and advising. The Department Chair put out calls for proposals and solicitations to the full-time faculty for those course releases. In recent years, the changing budget model and allocations has forced the elimination of much of that assigned time.
The changing budget model and allocations has also reduced the OE&E funds provided for Department operating expenses for items such as supplies, equipment, and faculty travel.
The Department makes the most of its limited resources by prioritizing needs identified in the strategic goals. At the same time, the Department has clearly identified priorities (addressed in the strategic plan) that include restoration of funding for basic costs of operation; maintenance of travel support that would fund at least one conference-related trip per faculty member per academic year; restoration of eliminated faculty assigned time; and increased resources to allow needed physical space for instruction and student program use.
CSUF’s focus on funding models based on full-time equivalent students (FTES) underscores the need for the Department to maintain, if not increase, the number of COMM majors. But because the University has a centralized admissions system, Department funding is ultimately dependent on administrative calibration of admissions to maintain predictability in enrollments.
Because there are limited funds with discretionary control at the Department level, there is no Department of Communications budget committee.
Other Sources of Funding
Centralized areas of funding (from the University) provide the Department with some additional support for specific projects. This support includes assistance from the Division of Information Technology. Support from IT has included computer equipment for full-time and part-time faculty (including laptops and related equipment for remote teaching) as well as support for the unit’s computer labs and broadcast journalism spaces.
For example, the Department’s computer labs were refreshed with new Mac computers in 2019 in partnership with the Division of IT. This refresh benefits all COMM students, as many courses use the labs. The Department was able to refresh the broadcast journalism studio with nearly $100,000 of new equipment in 2021. Recent prioritized funding for PRactical ADvantage Communications is addressed below, in C-04.
For example, the Department’s computer labs were refreshed with new Mac computers in 2019 in partnership with the Division of IT. This refresh benefits all COMM students, as many courses use the labs. The Department was able to refresh the broadcast journalism studio with nearly $100,000 of new equipment in 2021. Recent prioritized funding for PRactical ADvantage Communications is addressed below, in C-04.
COMM Budget Table, FY 2018-2019, 2019-2020, 2020-2021
C-04. Scholarships, Grants, and Gifts to the Program
The Department of Communications does not have its own development officer and is not authorized by the University to engage in fundraising. Fundraising is a University Advancement effort conducted by the University and, in this College, the Executive Director of Development for the College of Communications.
Gifts to the Department of Communications are received and disbursed by the College. As a result, it is difficult to conduct a complete accounting, particularly in program gifts. However, in recent years, the Department has been quite successful in acquiring gifts that have been turned into financial support for the program and for COMM students who need assistance. This section of the CEPR Application provides the following information:
Gifts to the Department of Communications are received and disbursed by the College. As a result, it is difficult to conduct a complete accounting, particularly in program gifts. However, in recent years, the Department has been quite successful in acquiring gifts that have been turned into financial support for the program and for COMM students who need assistance. This section of the CEPR Application provides the following information:
- Recurring COMM Scholarship Opportunities
- Total of Scholarship Awards, Last Three Academic Years
- Instructionally-Related Activity Funding
- Major Gift from NBCUniversal/Comcast
- PRactical ADvantage Communications Supporting Clients
- Summary
Recurring COMM Scholarship Opportunities
A Department of Communications committee of five faculty members oversees the promotion of scholarship opportunities, the receipt of student applications, and the award of financial support. Working cooperatively with CSUF Instructional Technology, in recent years the scholarship application process has been made seamless and online. Students access their CSUF portal to complete one application that allows their information to be submitted to all COMM scholarships for which they are qualified.
Another COMM faculty committee oversees the planning and carrying out of the Department of Communications Scholarships and Awards Event. This event, pictured above, is second only to commencement in its significance in the student experience. The event is a catered dinner for student award recipients, their families, and COMM administrators, faculty, staff, and alumni. Although the Coronavirus pandemic resulted in the event being held via Zoom in recent years, the Department hopes to return to an in-person event in 2022.
Stage photos from the 2018 Scholarships and Awards Event
Audience/Student photos from the 2018 Scholarships and Awards Event
Audience/Student photos from the 2018 Scholarships and Awards Event
Below are some examples of scholarship funds available to Department of Communications students.
Maxwell Scholarship
Amount: $1000 (multiple awards given)
This scholarship was established and funded by Dr. William Maxwell, founder of the Department of Communications. This scholarship is open to continuing students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree in Communications to assist them in meeting educational expenses. Criteria: Financial need, 2.5 GPA, good academic standing, extra-curricular activities involvement, department service or participation, full time enrollment.
The J. William Maxwell International Travel Scholarship
Amount: Varies (multiple awards given)
This scholarship was also established and funded by Dr. William Maxwell. Professor Maxwell traveled the world during his lifetime and was interested in international communications. This scholarship is open to continuing students who are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Communications and will be enrolled in a university sanctioned summer, fall, spring semester or academic year study abroad program to assist them in meeting educational and travel expenses. Criteria: Good academic standing.
Orange County PRSA Shining Star Scholarship
Each year, the Orange County PRSA Chapter offers a $1,000 stipend to a student in each of the university PRSSA chapters in the county. The $1,000 can be applied to any PRSA and OC/PRSA expense over the following two years. The recipient is honored at the OC/PRSA PROTOS awards dinner in August.
James Alexander Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
This scholarship was established and funded by Professor James Alexander, to recognize and honor students who have demonstrated strong academic performance and been actively involved in high school newspaper, yearbook or magazine production. The applicant is required to write a 225-word essay describing his/ her high school writing experience and career goals as well as provide a sample of a published story or photo from a high school publication. This scholarship is open to freshman and sophomore students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree from the Department of Communications.
Myles Atlas Memorial Scholarship
Amount: $500
Rhonda Atlas Garside, widow of Myles Atlas, endowed this scholarship in memory of her husband’s long and successful career in the advertising business. This scholarship is open to sophomore, junior, or senior Communications majors in the advertising concentration. Criteria: Career interest in advertising management or media buying.
Jay Berman Daily Titan Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Former students, family and friends of Jay Berman, Daily Titan adviser from 1981- 1992, established this endowed scholarship to annually recognize a student journalist who has made significant contributions to the Daily Titan. The scholarship is awarded based on outstanding performance and writing for the campus newspaper. The scholarship is open to junior or senior COMM majors with at least one semester enrollment remaining at Cal State Fullerton. Criteria: 2.5 GPA and quality of published work.
DGWB Advertising Scholarship
Amount: $2,500
This scholarship was established and funded by DGWB Advertising in Santa Ana to recognize and honor a student in the advertising concentration who demonstrates financial need. This scholarship is open to enrolled Advertising concentration students in the Department of Communications.
Gary Granville Memorial Scholarship
Amount: $1000
Former students, family and friends of the late Gary Granville, lecturer and Daily Titan adviser, established this scholarship. The scholarship recognizes a student who has made significant contributions to the Daily Titan. The scholarship will be awarded based on outstanding performance as an editor or reporter with the Daily Titan. This scholarship is open to junior or senior COMM majors with at least one semester enrollment remaining at Cal State Fullerton.
Alfred and Louise Hewitt Journalism Fund
Amount: $1,000
Mr. Stephen Hewitt established this scholarship in memory of his parents, Alfred and Louise Hewitt. Mr. Alfred Hewitt was passionate about journalism, and this scholarship celebrates his witty journalistic soul. In the tradition of his humor and teaching style, this scholarship is established to honor students who carry on his writing style and approach to journalism.
Terry Hynes Scholarship
Amount: $500 (dependent upon funding)
Terry Hynes, former chair of the Department of Communications, endowed this scholarship. This scholarship is open to Communication majors who will be seniors with at least one semester enrollment remaining at Cal State Fullerton. Criteria: Outstanding academic performance and contributions to the department.
David Little Scholarship
Amount: $500
This scholarship was established to recognize and honor students with good academic credentials who are in need of financial assistance. This scholarship is open to enrolled students interested in a career in advertising management or media buying. Criteria: Academic achievement and financial need.
V.J. Lovero Photojournalism Scholarship
Amount: $1,000 (dependent upon funding)
This scholarship was established and funded by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim to assist in educating students who have demonstrated career promise in photography. The scholarship honors the memory of renowned sports photographer V.J. Lovero. Applicants must be enrolled for at least one semester during the next academic year, and they must demonstrate professional promise. Criteria: Quality of portfolio.
Miven Venture Partners Scholarship
Amount: $1,000 (two awards given)
This scholarship was established by the Tsao Family Foundation and Miven Venture Partners to support students in need of financial assistance. Applicants must prepare a two-part project (can be from a class project) consisting of: 1) 60% articulating brand strategy and 2) 40% communicating the tag line. Selection will be based on what is distinctive or unique about the project and how well the reader understands the conceptualization of the brand. Another consideration is how well the tagline is promoted aside from an ad campaign. This scholarship is open to undergraduate students majoring in COMM/Advertising. Criteria: 2.0 GPA and financial need, full-time student.
Tom Pasqua Memorial Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
This scholarship was established in memory of Tom Pasqua, a journalism professor at Southwestern College in Chula Vista and in the CSUF Communications Department during the 1970s. This scholarship is open to community college transfer students majoring in journalism. Criteria: 2.75 GPA, good academic credentials, demonstrated record of involvement in journalism activities.
The Society of Professional Journalists Scholarship
Amount: $700 (dependent upon funding)
This scholarship was endowed by the Orange County Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. It is open to sophomore or junior Communication majors in print, visual or broadcast journalism who are pursuing an undergraduate degree. Criteria: Academic achievement and experience in journalism activities.
OCVA - Rick Pullen Scholarship
Amount: $2,500
The Orange County Visitors Association has established this scholarship in honor of Rick Pullen, who served as the dean of the College for 15 years. Pullen has served as a board member of the Orange County Tourism Council. The recipient will be presented with the award at the Orange County Tourism Symposium during spring semester. This scholarship is open to undergraduates who are interested in a career in tourism. Criteria: 3.0 GPA and financial need.
Barbara K. Rickard-Riegle Broadcast Journalism Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
This scholarship is in memory of Barbara K. Rickard-Riegle, to support the efforts of students who are in need of financial assistance who are studying broadcast journalism. This scholarship is open to new and continuing COMM students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree. Must be a citizen of the United States. Criteria: Full-Time enrollment, 3.25 GPA, financial need, and excellent journalism skills.
Don and Vi Smith Memorial Scholarship
Amount: $1000
This scholarship is given by family and friends in memory of Don and Vi Smith to support the efforts of students who are in need of financial assistance. This scholarship is open to sophomore, junior, or senior Communications majors. Criteria: 2.75 GPA or higher, experience in journalism activities, financial need and plans to pursue a journalism career.
John Stewart Memorial Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
This scholarship honors the memory of John Stewart and supports the efforts of students who are in need of financial assistance. John Stewart, an outstanding journalist, died of cancer at a young age. This scholarship is open to junior or senior Communications majors who are pursuing an undergraduate degree. Criteria: Academic achievement, experience in journalism activities, financial need and plan to pursue journalism as a career.
Edgar P. Trotter Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
This scholarship is named for Professor Edgar P. Trotter, the chair of Communications Department from 1983-1990, in recognition of his strong support of students and their educational needs. This scholarship is open to sophomore, junior, or senior Communications majors who are pursuing an undergraduate degree. Criteria: Academic achievement, financial need.
Vikki Vargas Broadcast Journalism Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
This scholarship was established and funded by Vikki Vargas and KNBC-TV to recognize and honor students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance in broadcasting. This scholarship is open to new and continuing students who are pursuing an undergraduate or a graduate degree. Criteria: 3.0 GPA, good academic standing, financial need and extra-curricular activities.
Amount: $1000 (multiple awards given)
This scholarship was established and funded by Dr. William Maxwell, founder of the Department of Communications. This scholarship is open to continuing students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree in Communications to assist them in meeting educational expenses. Criteria: Financial need, 2.5 GPA, good academic standing, extra-curricular activities involvement, department service or participation, full time enrollment.
The J. William Maxwell International Travel Scholarship
Amount: Varies (multiple awards given)
This scholarship was also established and funded by Dr. William Maxwell. Professor Maxwell traveled the world during his lifetime and was interested in international communications. This scholarship is open to continuing students who are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree in Communications and will be enrolled in a university sanctioned summer, fall, spring semester or academic year study abroad program to assist them in meeting educational and travel expenses. Criteria: Good academic standing.
Orange County PRSA Shining Star Scholarship
Each year, the Orange County PRSA Chapter offers a $1,000 stipend to a student in each of the university PRSSA chapters in the county. The $1,000 can be applied to any PRSA and OC/PRSA expense over the following two years. The recipient is honored at the OC/PRSA PROTOS awards dinner in August.
James Alexander Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
This scholarship was established and funded by Professor James Alexander, to recognize and honor students who have demonstrated strong academic performance and been actively involved in high school newspaper, yearbook or magazine production. The applicant is required to write a 225-word essay describing his/ her high school writing experience and career goals as well as provide a sample of a published story or photo from a high school publication. This scholarship is open to freshman and sophomore students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree from the Department of Communications.
Myles Atlas Memorial Scholarship
Amount: $500
Rhonda Atlas Garside, widow of Myles Atlas, endowed this scholarship in memory of her husband’s long and successful career in the advertising business. This scholarship is open to sophomore, junior, or senior Communications majors in the advertising concentration. Criteria: Career interest in advertising management or media buying.
Jay Berman Daily Titan Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Former students, family and friends of Jay Berman, Daily Titan adviser from 1981- 1992, established this endowed scholarship to annually recognize a student journalist who has made significant contributions to the Daily Titan. The scholarship is awarded based on outstanding performance and writing for the campus newspaper. The scholarship is open to junior or senior COMM majors with at least one semester enrollment remaining at Cal State Fullerton. Criteria: 2.5 GPA and quality of published work.
DGWB Advertising Scholarship
Amount: $2,500
This scholarship was established and funded by DGWB Advertising in Santa Ana to recognize and honor a student in the advertising concentration who demonstrates financial need. This scholarship is open to enrolled Advertising concentration students in the Department of Communications.
Gary Granville Memorial Scholarship
Amount: $1000
Former students, family and friends of the late Gary Granville, lecturer and Daily Titan adviser, established this scholarship. The scholarship recognizes a student who has made significant contributions to the Daily Titan. The scholarship will be awarded based on outstanding performance as an editor or reporter with the Daily Titan. This scholarship is open to junior or senior COMM majors with at least one semester enrollment remaining at Cal State Fullerton.
Alfred and Louise Hewitt Journalism Fund
Amount: $1,000
Mr. Stephen Hewitt established this scholarship in memory of his parents, Alfred and Louise Hewitt. Mr. Alfred Hewitt was passionate about journalism, and this scholarship celebrates his witty journalistic soul. In the tradition of his humor and teaching style, this scholarship is established to honor students who carry on his writing style and approach to journalism.
Terry Hynes Scholarship
Amount: $500 (dependent upon funding)
Terry Hynes, former chair of the Department of Communications, endowed this scholarship. This scholarship is open to Communication majors who will be seniors with at least one semester enrollment remaining at Cal State Fullerton. Criteria: Outstanding academic performance and contributions to the department.
David Little Scholarship
Amount: $500
This scholarship was established to recognize and honor students with good academic credentials who are in need of financial assistance. This scholarship is open to enrolled students interested in a career in advertising management or media buying. Criteria: Academic achievement and financial need.
V.J. Lovero Photojournalism Scholarship
Amount: $1,000 (dependent upon funding)
This scholarship was established and funded by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim to assist in educating students who have demonstrated career promise in photography. The scholarship honors the memory of renowned sports photographer V.J. Lovero. Applicants must be enrolled for at least one semester during the next academic year, and they must demonstrate professional promise. Criteria: Quality of portfolio.
Miven Venture Partners Scholarship
Amount: $1,000 (two awards given)
This scholarship was established by the Tsao Family Foundation and Miven Venture Partners to support students in need of financial assistance. Applicants must prepare a two-part project (can be from a class project) consisting of: 1) 60% articulating brand strategy and 2) 40% communicating the tag line. Selection will be based on what is distinctive or unique about the project and how well the reader understands the conceptualization of the brand. Another consideration is how well the tagline is promoted aside from an ad campaign. This scholarship is open to undergraduate students majoring in COMM/Advertising. Criteria: 2.0 GPA and financial need, full-time student.
Tom Pasqua Memorial Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
This scholarship was established in memory of Tom Pasqua, a journalism professor at Southwestern College in Chula Vista and in the CSUF Communications Department during the 1970s. This scholarship is open to community college transfer students majoring in journalism. Criteria: 2.75 GPA, good academic credentials, demonstrated record of involvement in journalism activities.
The Society of Professional Journalists Scholarship
Amount: $700 (dependent upon funding)
This scholarship was endowed by the Orange County Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. It is open to sophomore or junior Communication majors in print, visual or broadcast journalism who are pursuing an undergraduate degree. Criteria: Academic achievement and experience in journalism activities.
OCVA - Rick Pullen Scholarship
Amount: $2,500
The Orange County Visitors Association has established this scholarship in honor of Rick Pullen, who served as the dean of the College for 15 years. Pullen has served as a board member of the Orange County Tourism Council. The recipient will be presented with the award at the Orange County Tourism Symposium during spring semester. This scholarship is open to undergraduates who are interested in a career in tourism. Criteria: 3.0 GPA and financial need.
Barbara K. Rickard-Riegle Broadcast Journalism Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
This scholarship is in memory of Barbara K. Rickard-Riegle, to support the efforts of students who are in need of financial assistance who are studying broadcast journalism. This scholarship is open to new and continuing COMM students who are pursuing an undergraduate degree. Must be a citizen of the United States. Criteria: Full-Time enrollment, 3.25 GPA, financial need, and excellent journalism skills.
Don and Vi Smith Memorial Scholarship
Amount: $1000
This scholarship is given by family and friends in memory of Don and Vi Smith to support the efforts of students who are in need of financial assistance. This scholarship is open to sophomore, junior, or senior Communications majors. Criteria: 2.75 GPA or higher, experience in journalism activities, financial need and plans to pursue a journalism career.
John Stewart Memorial Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
This scholarship honors the memory of John Stewart and supports the efforts of students who are in need of financial assistance. John Stewart, an outstanding journalist, died of cancer at a young age. This scholarship is open to junior or senior Communications majors who are pursuing an undergraduate degree. Criteria: Academic achievement, experience in journalism activities, financial need and plan to pursue journalism as a career.
Edgar P. Trotter Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
This scholarship is named for Professor Edgar P. Trotter, the chair of Communications Department from 1983-1990, in recognition of his strong support of students and their educational needs. This scholarship is open to sophomore, junior, or senior Communications majors who are pursuing an undergraduate degree. Criteria: Academic achievement, financial need.
Vikki Vargas Broadcast Journalism Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
This scholarship was established and funded by Vikki Vargas and KNBC-TV to recognize and honor students who have demonstrated outstanding academic performance in broadcasting. This scholarship is open to new and continuing students who are pursuing an undergraduate or a graduate degree. Criteria: 3.0 GPA, good academic standing, financial need and extra-curricular activities.
Total of Scholarship Awards, Last Three Academic Years
Instructionally-Related Activity Funding
For many years, California State University-Fullerton students have been assessed an annual Instructionally Related Activity fee to cover special needs related to undergraduate and graduate courses. The IRA fee (currently about $40 per student, per semester) provides support for several Department of Communications offerings, including The Daily Titan (COMM 471), OC News (COMM 472), PRactical ADvantage Communications (COMM 474), Tusk Magazine (COMM 434 and COMM 437), the American Advertising Federation Competition (COMM 475), and COMM Week (COMM 497).
Associated Students, Inc. administers the IRA fee and provides support to faculty, staff, advisors, and students who participate in courses that benefit from the fee. The IRA grants are competitive and are built on a zero-based budgeting formula. Each year, faculty sponsors of IRA program courses are required to make a written budget presentation of need for their classes. Funds are disbursed each July for that academic year. The IRA program always receives more requests for funds than are available for disbursement.
In spite of the competition, the Department of Communications receives more than $175,000 in IRA funds.
Associated Students, Inc. administers the IRA fee and provides support to faculty, staff, advisors, and students who participate in courses that benefit from the fee. The IRA grants are competitive and are built on a zero-based budgeting formula. Each year, faculty sponsors of IRA program courses are required to make a written budget presentation of need for their classes. Funds are disbursed each July for that academic year. The IRA program always receives more requests for funds than are available for disbursement.
In spite of the competition, the Department of Communications receives more than $175,000 in IRA funds.
Major Gift From NBCUniversal/Comcast
In 2021, the Department of Communications was awarded a $500,000 gift from NBCUniversal/Comcast to support journalism training and diversity, equity and inclusion practices. The Department is one of 17 journalism programs to receive funding as part of a multi-year grant effort by NBCUniversal/Comcast to narrow the achievement gap, expand experiential learning opportunities, and produce and promote student-led multi-cultural content. The gift allocates $250,000 for 25 scholarships/fellowships of $10,000 each for Communications/Journalism majors, $200,000 to support faculty and classes, and $50,000 for mobile and digital journalism equipment. While this award was not specifically targeted to the Public Relations Concentration, the support for courses and equipment will ultimately benefit all COMM students.
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PRactical ADvantage Communications Supporting Clients
PRactical ADvantage Communications was launched in 2011. The agency works pro bono for nonprofits, but works for government and business clients on a cost-recovery basis. The agency is not able to directly bill clients, because if it did so it would not qualify for IRA funds ($8,500 per year in recent years). Therefore, the agency’s Client Services Agreement makes an allowance for philanthropic donations to support agency infrastructure needs.
Since 2011, the agency has received $33,198 in client support. This total includes a $2,000 grant for a multi-segment First Amendment video produced in 2020 for use on college campuses, as well as client sponsorships from Mazda North American Operations (2014), the Motor Press Guild (2016), Cox Cable (2016), the City of Anaheim (2017, 2018), the Fullerton Chamber of Commerce (2018), the Bob Hope USO (2018), City of Irwindale (2019), and the CSU System Chancellor’s Office (2020).
Since 2011, the agency has received $33,198 in client support. This total includes a $2,000 grant for a multi-segment First Amendment video produced in 2020 for use on college campuses, as well as client sponsorships from Mazda North American Operations (2014), the Motor Press Guild (2016), Cox Cable (2016), the City of Anaheim (2017, 2018), the Fullerton Chamber of Commerce (2018), the Bob Hope USO (2018), City of Irwindale (2019), and the CSU System Chancellor’s Office (2020).
Summary
CSUF’s Strategic Plan recognizes the need to “expand and strengthen our financial and physical capacity.” The Department of Communications Strategic Plan aligns with this, seeking to:
- Develop a comprehensive plan for alumni engagement and outreach, including for alumni identification and tracking; one-way and two-way communications; and opportunities for alumni involvement and engagement with classes and programs.
- Increase fundraising to the Department and its signature programs, including through more engagement with faculty, alumni, businesses, and foundations.