Lubeznik Center for the Arts Receives $33,000 Technology Grant

Lubeznik Center for the Arts Receives $33,000 Technology Grant

Lubeznik Center for the Arts (LCA) in Michigan City, Indiana is proud to receive a grant of $33,000 from the NiSource Charitable Foundation. The foundation’s mission is “to help create strong and sustainable communities where NiSource employees and customers live and work.” This funding will support a comprehensive technology upgrade that will dramatically enhance LCA’s educational programs. 

“Because our mission includes the exploration of contemporary ideas and practices, incorporating technology into our arts education programs is a top priority,” says Hannah Hammond-Hagman, LCA’s Education Director. “The funding provided through this grant will allow us to take our proven, successful programs and propel them to the next level by better incorporating a STEAM component and more meaningfully connecting the youth we serve to the world class art in our galleries.” 

Phase I of this project included the purchase of 30 iPads, a charging station and other related supplies. This new technology was already put to the test by a group of 8 to 13-year-olds in a one-week “Lights, Camera, Action” summer camp. 

"Having this one-on-one technology available for our students allowed them to produce stop motion animations and video pieces in collaborative groups and individually,” says Hammond-Hagman. “Previously, students didn't have the option of making their own individual works as we didn't have enough iPads. Their use has allowed us to expand the toolbox for kids with a medium they are already so familiar with and push that into making meaningful art with self-expression, story-building and creativity."

Over the next year, this new technology will be integrated into many different LCA programs, including the after school arts education offered at 11 different Michigan City area schools and a variety of classes and camps. Other plans include STEAM-specific professional development for LCA’s education staff and a major upgrade to LCA’s website.

“NiSource has been a wonderful partner in our efforts to make our community a great place to live, work and play through the arts,” says Janet Bloch, LCA’s Executive Director. “We are very grateful for this grant which will benefit hundreds of children in our community.”