Rockhurst Sentinel

Issue date: 10/23/08 Section: Lifestyle

Media Credit: Lindsey Griffith

Did you know that there is a Mac lab on the third floor of Sedgwick? Why is it that a good portion of students on campus do not know of this mysterious computer lab? Freshmen Connor Kelley weighed in on the issue.

"Man, I have no idea what you are talking about, but it would be sweet if there was a room full of Macs."

He was stunned to discover the room on the third floor is locked. He did not know of such a great place and wanted to figure out how to get in and use one of the computers. Kelley was unfortunately let down when he realized the lock pad on the door exists to restrict people that do not belong.

Dr. Peter Bicak, Department Chair of Communications and Fine Arts, revealed the reasoning behind the secrecy of the Mac lab. It was never intended to be shut off from the student body. He explained it acts as a lab to communication and other fine arts majors, much like a science lab to biology and chemistry students. It exists to provide further education in the realm of journalism and media programs in areas like photography and graphic design.

The lab started up in the year of 2006 with the help of Sam Mwangi, Bicak, Dean Shirley Scritchfield and Amy Drouin with donations from the McGee Foundation. Rockhurst received a $50,000 grant from the foundation. The grant was used to get Macs, digital cameras, multimedia software and also some furniture. The lab is used for students who are taking journalism, independent studies, art classes or photo shop. While speaking with Bicak, he thought it would be a good idea to bring in graphic design for those interested. The lab consists of 20 Mac computers; the measurements of the screens are twenty inches and have cinema IMAX capabilities. That sounds pretty appealing, having top notch computers for those who take classes that need the proper facilities and equipment. Check it out sometime if you can.

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