News by Topic: Games, Film, And Digital Media

New scholarships recognize students for their competitive video gaming skills and dedication to representing the university at the highest level. Since forming in 2016, RIT Esports has become one of the largest and best collegiate esports programs in the world.

An electrical engineer turned creative technologist, Ricky Figueroa is invigorated by working at the intersection of technology, the arts, and design. Embracing an interdisciplinary approach to teaching and research has led to success for both Figueroa and the students who pass through his classroom.

Julian Heuser, a fifth-year computer science major, is taking his game Year Unknown to the Game Developer’s Conference in March. His game is in the running for Best Student Game at the Independent Games Festival, which is held during the conference.

The dean of Carnegie Mellon’s College of Engineering is praised for his research credentials, success in global partnerships and entrepreneurship, and strong student engagement. He starts at RIT July 1.

WXXI continues to spotlight the work of students and alumni from RIT’s School of Film and Animation through RIT Shorts, a biannual short film series.

Spearheaded by RIT’s Division of Academic Affairs and Professor Joe Geigel, the rigorous program engages undergraduate and graduate students in long-term, large-scale, multidisciplinary projects led by faculty researchers.

A group of six faculty members in RIT’s College of Art and Design have earned the University & Research Projects Award from the European Cultural Centre (ECC) for their collection of works, titled “Cultural Disruptors.”

Decked out with technicolor lights and vibrant animated displays, RIT’s MAGIC Spell Studios soundstage became a runway last week during Beyond Fashion. The rainbow runway featured a diverse collection of garments and wearables crafted by local designers and RIT students across multiple disciplines.

In an industry that thrives on storytelling, Chris Wairegi ’14 (cinematography and photography) discovered a narrative that was glaringly absent, representation. Determined to rewrite the script, Wairegi founded 600 Black Women, a collective redefining what inclusion looks like behind the lens.

Unique program offerings, technological expertise, and cutting-edge facilities earned RIT’s School of Film and Animation another placement on a top film school ranking list this year. RIT placed 29th in TheWrap’s Top 50 Film Schools for 2024 list, marking the first year RIT was featured in this ranking.

Spectrum News speaks to Mari Jaye Blanchard, associate professor in the School of Film and Animation, about the talented and collaborative students in the animation program, following the school's recent recognition as one of the top 25 film schools in the U.S.

Travis Rankin’s passion for music led him to create the Rochester Music Lab, a vibrant space dedicated to music lessons and community outreach. With his studio, the SOIS alumnus aims to give back by offering opportunities for all ages to explore, learn, and connect through music.