EKU’s ICCA: A Destination for the Arts in Kentucky

Eastern Kentucky University’s (EKU) Institute for Creative and Collaborative Arts (ICCA) serves as a destination for creative students in the Commonwealth. With state-of-the-art facilities, collaboration across academic programs and a deep commitment to fostering artistic expression, the ICCA is where students and professionals alike can showcase the rich artistry of Kentucky.

“No matter what area of study you choose at ICCA—whether it’s music, art, graphic design, public relations, film, journalism, communication studies or something else—you’re going to get an education that prioritizes how to express yourself and tell stories in this modern world,” said Tricia Kelley, EKU assistant professor and Kentucky Press Association board member.

The ICCA, home to the schools of music, art and design, and communication, equips students with well-rounded skills that match industry standards.

One of the many environments where EKU’s ICCA students get hands-on experience is the Fred Parker Giles Gallery. The gallery, located in the Campbell Building, spotlights and celebrates the creative endeavors of students, alumni, faculty, staff, regional artists and more. 

“Students are getting real-world experience, handling artwork, laying out exhibits and learning how to light an art gallery,” said Melissa Vandenberg, associate professor of art and director of the Giles Gallery. “They’re also learning how to generate didactic materials, marketing materials and how to leverage social media to help promote creative activities in our area.”

The Eastern Progress, EKU’s student-run news outlet, also gives students hands-on experience and skills to craft impactful and creative stories.

“Whether you want to pursue journalism after college or another field, the Eastern Progress provides students with the opportunity to find and tell stories about what’s happening on campus,” said Kelley. “Students have real agency in the content they put out, and I’m proud of the recognition students have received over the 100 years the Progress has had a presence on our campus.”

Students who have worked at the Progress have been recognized regionally by the Kentucky Press Association and Society of Professional Journalists while also receiving national honors and awards from the Associated Collegiate Press.

In addition to facilities and working experiences, EKU students benefit from having faculty who are dedicated to helping them create lasting professional connections.

“EKU faculty spend a lot of time cultivating relationships with students while inviting them to be a part of professional projects that will boost their knowledge in their respective areas of study,” said Kelley. 

Vandenberg added that the ICCA helps students in the arts find community, giving them a sense of how impactful change can be achieved when people from creative areas work together. 

“I think having a sense of home and identity is really important,” said Vandenberg. “Us creatives, we don’t survive without our fellow creative communities. My hope is that students see the power of community and what happens when people combine forces for the better cultural good, and that our graduates go forward and emulate that within their own communities.”

The ICCA offers undergraduate and graduate programs with a wide range of relevant, comprehensive educational opportunities grounded in student-centered learning, collaboration, communication, technology and creativity.

By Ethan Sirles