Why does LSU have a WebCam?
Chancellor Mark Emmert asked Ron Hay, executive director of Computing Services, to implement this technology which several other universities around the country already are using to increase exposure of their campuses.
“We thought it was an effective way to publicize LSU to people who’ve never been to the campus before,” Hay said.
Lori Kemp, University Relations manager, said the WebCam is a recruiting tool, not only for students but also faculty and staff. The beauty of the campus is a good selling point, she said.
“[With theWebCam], we don’t have to write it,” Kemp said. “It’s visual; it’s current.”
Claude Rodriguez, an Enterprise Solutions consultant, said not only can prospective students view the campus from the WebCam, but also former students.
“It’s an opportunity to showcase this beautiful campus to alumni all over the world,” he said.
Rodriguez knows alumni who are overseas participating in the war effort who said they were encouraged to be able to revisit the campus through this new medium.
What other universities have WebCams?
Florida State University, Princeton, Baylor University, Penn State and University of Illinois are just a few of the universities that have WebCams.
How many cameras are there?
Currently there is only one camera overlooking the Parade Ground, the tree-lined field that plays host to cadets’ military drills as well as numerous campus events.
However, Rodriguez said there are plans to set more cameras in place around the more aesthetically pleasing parts of campus, like the Quad and the Union atrium, Rodriguez said.
While the Parade Ground camera is stationary, Rodriguez said the Quad camera will be able to pan left and right, enabling people to see multiple views.
What new costs does the WebCam pass on to the students?
Rodriguez said the WebCam does not cost the students anything. The costs are absorbed as part of the Chancellor’s initiative in coordination with University Relations.
What are some little-known facts about the campus?
According to the Web site, many of LSU’s live oaks, valued at more than $36 million and magnolia trees were planted in the 1930s.
In the 1970s, azaleas, crepe myrtles, ligustrum, and camelias were planted in the Quad, and sidewalks were added.