Posted by SMAD January 8, 2008

HARRISONBURG - Digital Video Group Inc. has given $30,000 to James Madison University to provide support for outstanding undergraduate student scholars studying in JMU's School of Media Arts and Design.

The firm's gift creates the "Digital Video Group Inc. Scholarship in Memory of Donnie E. Mongold" and will benefit students studying media arts and design. Each year at least one eligible student will receive a Digital Video Group Inc. Scholarship. The scholarship honors the memory of former JMU employee Donnie E. Mongold who was instrumental in the procurement process and aided in the implementation of SMAD's new high-definition television production facility in Harrison Hall.

Digital Video Group, a Virginia company specializing in broadcast and production systems, integrated the complex equipment in the JMU facility. The studio is the first high-definition system of its type in Virginia, according to Alex Martin, chief executive officer of Digital Video Group.

The television industry conversion from analog to digital broadcasting requires an enormous investment in new digital production tools. By February 2009, all television stations in the nation must broadcast digitally, though not all will be broadcasting in high-definition. The installation of an all HD facility puts SMAD at the forefront of this technology and provides a unique laboratory for students to gain experience with the very latest tools and applications.

"Many broadcast TV stations do not yet have this level of equipment," said Dr. Steve Anderson, Director of JMU's School of Media Arts & Design. Anderson goes on to credit former SMAD Director Dr. George Johnson for carrying out the vision. "Technology Manager John Hodges, Chief Engineer Burl Facemire, Associate Professor Joe Hinshaw and Professor Johnson were the individuals most responsible for the JMU end of this implementation. They can be rightfully proud of this accomplishment."

The state-of-the-art system includes a Grass Valley production switcher, Ikegami high-definition studio cameras, Chyron graphics, a Wheatstone audio console, Miranda multi-imaging displayed on two Panasonic 65-inch plasma screens and Clear-Com intercom systems.

According to Mary Helmick, JMU's Director of Procurement Services, "Donnie Mongold provided excellent customer service to both the University and the vendors he worked with. This particular project was one that he felt a special connection with and he was so proud to have facilitated the purchase of this equipment for the University and SMAD. The fact that DVG is honoring Donnie's hard work and dedication with this scholarship in his memory would have meant a great deal to Donnie."

Digital Video Group has offices in Richmond, Hampton Roads and Northern Virginia.

JMU Public Affairs contact: Janet Smith, 540-568-8008 or smithjl@jmu.edu.