 "Photo: Diane Varnie/Echo staff photographer")
Six members of N.C. Central University's TV news show, E-Chat, gather on the set brainstorming and planning their next show.
Their objective: to keep NCCU students informed about important campus issues, all the while learning the tricks the TV news trade.
In late January, mass communications senior Kanisha Madison-Bowks was inspired with the idea of getting communication faculty and media practicum students to team up to start the news program. E-Chat was the result, NCCU's first in-depth TV news program.
E-Chat airs repeatedly on Channel 30 of the campus cable system.
It's beneficial for the student body to know the information that is being addressed on the show," said Madison-Bowks.
E-Chat's first program explored in depth the issues surrounding recent adjustments to GPA requirements which will require students to maintain a cumulative GPA of 1.9.
Soon after Madison-Bowks initial inspiration, Russell Robinson, assistant professor in the Department of English and Mass Communication, jumped on board as the executive producer. Then TV studio manager Felecia Casey-Hicks signed on.
"Putting on a show is a process," said Robinson. "When the idea of a show comes into existence, many students just want to be the host of a video production, but don't really want to put in the work. We need students who are willing to be actively involved. We want curious energetic people."
According to Hicks E-Chat is a great hands-on experience that enables students to experience the news production process from start to finish.
She said putting a show together requires meetings, research and brainstorming.
"When done," she said, "it shows what we can accomplish through professionalism and teamwork when everyone is serious, dedicated, and does their part."
The first E-Chat news program aired in mid-February.
Their second program, which explores rising tuition rates and the possible reductions in federal Pell Grant funding hikes, is almost completed.
Both Chancellor Charlie Nelms and Sharon Oliver, director of financial aid, were interviewed for the program.
Mass communication junior, Rairu Howard, another producer with E-Chat, said he's especially proud of the in-depth nature of the programming.
"I'm happy to be a part of it," he said. "This gives the school something worth putting on Channel 30."
Student producers say they are optimistic about the future of E-Chat because faculty and students are teamed up.
"E-Chat will thrive because it's influenced by experienced faculty members and that gives students an opportunity to learn how video production works," said Charles McMurray, a graduating mass communication senior who is also a producer on E-Chat.
is a member of the 
Be the first to comment on this article! Log in to Comment
You must be logged in to comment on an article. Not already a member? Register now