Welcome to Ridgewater College's Photography Department, where artistic excellence has thrived for five decades. Join us as we celebrate our 50th anniversary, bringing together alumni, current students, faculty, staff, and the community for a day filled with reminiscing, trivia, prizes, and more. Let's dive into the remarkable journey of this department, its positive transformations, and the exciting milestones we've achieved along the way.
Embracing Change: Transformations Over 50 Years
Discover the positive transformations that Ridgewater College's photography department has undergone in its 50-year journey.
Over the course of 50 years, Ridgewater College's photography department has continuously evolved to meet the needs of its students. By removing course prerequisites, the department has created a more tailored learning experience, allowing students to select courses that align with their interests and goals.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the department made a seamless transition to an online format, which surprisingly enhanced student satisfaction. With increased access to state-of-the-art equipment through semester-long checkouts, students were able to explore their creativity using digital and mirrorless cameras, lenses, and studio lighting.
Video lectures have also played a significant role in the department's success, offering course flexibility and attracting a diverse range of students. This transition has made the program more accessible to part-time and full-time nontraditional students, as well as working professionals, expanding its reach across the nation.
Expanding Career Opportunities: Collaborations and Certificates
Explore the educational collaborations and specialized certificates that Ridgewater College's photography department offers, opening doors to broader career opportunities.
Ridgewater College's photography department understands the importance of preparing students for a variety of career paths. To meet this goal, the department has established educational collaborations with other programs, allowing students to earn an online photography and design degree.
In addition, the department offers an agriculture marketing and communications certificate that includes digital photography and editing through Adobe Lightroom. This unique certificate recognizes that photography skills are valuable beyond the realm of professional photography, catering to a wider range of students and their interests.
With these collaborations and specialized certificates, Ridgewater College's photography department is equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in diverse career opportunities.
Celebrating 50 Years: Alumni and Community Engagement
Join the celebration of Ridgewater College's photography department's 50th anniversary, as alumni, students, and the community come together for a day of reminiscing and camaraderie.
The 50th anniversary of Ridgewater College's photography department was a remarkable milestone that brought together alumni, current students, faculty, staff, and the community. The festivities created an atmosphere of nostalgia and camaraderie, as attendees shared memories, insights, and experiences.
From the class of 1975 to the most recent 2023 graduates, alumni gathered to celebrate the department's achievements. Wade McDonald, one of Ridgewater's photography instructors, expressed joy at seeing the reunion of alumni, with hugs, laughter, and a sense of fun filling the air.
This anniversary celebration not only honored the department's rich history but also highlighted the strong bonds formed within the photography community at Ridgewater College.
Looking Ahead: Shaping the Future of Photography
Discover how Ridgewater College's photography department is shaping the next generation of visionary photographers and pushing the boundaries of creative expression.
Ridgewater College's photography department is grateful for the support and contributions of all those who attended the 50th anniversary celebration. As the department looks to the future, it remains committed to nurturing and developing the next generation of visionary photographers.
With a focus on pushing the boundaries of creative expression, the department continues to innovate and adapt its curriculum to reflect the evolving field of photography. By staying at the forefront of technological advancements and industry trends, Ridgewater College ensures that its students are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Through its dedication to excellence and a strong sense of community, Ridgewater College's photography department is poised to shape the future of photography and inspire the next wave of talented artists.
