The Board of Regents is pleased to present a KUDOS award to Susan Oestmann, Computer Support Associate in the College of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
Susan was hired in 2015 to help manage the enormous quantity of expensive equipment the college makes available to students, including still cameras, video cameras, lenses, recording devices and accessories. Susan quickly demonstrated a desire and ability to do much more. She took it upon herself to learn each piece of equipment inside-out; followed by intensive, ongoing research into the latest equipment developments. This enabled her to make recommendations for improving the inventory and stretching the limited technology budget, resulting in an exceptional educational experience for our students.
Upon identifying an under-utilized audio booth on another part of the campus, she arranged to have the college acquire the booth, move it to Andersen Hall, and install it in the newsroom where it is available around the clock. This led to the installation of a “real” studio in the building, equipped with backdrops, a soundboard, and lighting to create a small accessible space for media production.
But wait! There’s more…Susan has built out a concept for a Sling Studio, an equipment package that uses a person’s own smartphone as the centerpiece of a full-blown video and audio recording studio with the attachment of small digital accessories, which supports production of professional works without the need for large, cumbersome cameras. Susan is also developing a dedicated podcasting studio, where students can create professional-quality audio recordings.
Her nominator wrote, “All of the innovation and energy that Ms. Oestmann brings to our college pales in comparison to her love of our students. She is incredibly devoted to the young people who come her way, turning away no one and working with kindness and patience with everyone.”
Supporting Susan today in our virtual KUDO are:
- Amy Struthers, Interim Dean of the College of Journalism and Mass Communications;
- Mary Kay Quinlan, Associate Dean of the College; and
- Haley Hamel, Business and Operations Manager of the College.
Please join me in thanking Susan Oestmann for her outstanding service to her college and the University of Nebraska.