On February 4-6, 2021, Florida State University College of Communication and Information (CCI) hosted its first virtual CCI Family and Friends weekend. The event provided an opportunity for students and their families, and interested others, to meet faculty, staff, students, and alumni from the three Schools within CCI: School of Communication, School of Communication Science and Disorders, and School of Information.

The six-hour event was divided into 12 Zoom sessions over three days, and offered meetings with CCI Dean Lawrence C. Dennis, faculty from all three schools, students, and advisors. Ken Baldauf, Director of FSU Innovation Hub, and Kirby Kander, Director of Seminole Productions, offered virtual tours of their facilities and presentations on experiential learning opportunities. CCI Leadership Board members, who are alumni of the three Schools, shared their FSU and career experiences.

Throughout the event, CCI’s focus on student success through engagement and involvement came through as a consistent theme. For example, some students from the School of Communication shared their experiences working with faculty on thesis projects for Honors in the Major, on the Ad Team, and as student ambassadors, while students in Information discussed research they conducted as part of faculty-led research teams. The School of Communication Science and Disorders demonstrated how their students incorporate their learning into clinical practical settings.

CCI is grateful for the contributions of the CCI Leadership Board, FSU Innovation Hub, Seminole Productions, our academic and career advising, administration, faculty, staff, and students for making this event a success.

“It was extraordinary how many of the amazing people associated with CCI were willing to devote their energy to planning for and participating in this event, as coordinators, presenters, and attendees,” said CCI Associate Dean and School of Information Professor Michelle Kazmer. “I’m thankful for every one of them, and I know Dean Dennis is, too!”

Many hours of time and talent went into the preparation and execution; thanks to all for a successful event, and we look forward to the next one.