The Dixon High School Broadcast Club received a major upgrade, thanks to a generous $20,000 donation from the Donaldson Foundation. This significant contribution has added to the club's capabilities in their activities like livestreaming DHS varsity sports, allowing the students to step up their game. The funds were used to purchase three additional high-quality cameras and tripods, a new dedicated streaming laptop, additional sound equipment and several accessories.
The impact of the donation is immediately visible, most notably in the club's ability to offer semi-professional grade live coverage of various sports, events and overall video production. Previously limited by minimal equipment, students can now capture the action from multiple angles with crystal-clear clarity. The new streaming laptop ensures a reliable stream of video to YouTube, meaning fans, family and the community who can't attend the games in person won't miss any of the excitement. This donation not only enhances the viewer experience but also provides students with invaluable, hands-on experience using industry-standard equipment, preparing them for potential future careers in media production.
Club advisor Bob Wendt expressed thanks to the Donaldson Foundation, highlighting the difference the new gear is making in student engagement and learning. "With this investment in our students' education and passion," Wendt said. "The Donaldson Foundation has given our students a chance to learn real-world skills, take on greater responsibility, and deliver content they can be truly proud of. Seeing their reaction when they set up the new cameras for the first time was a memorable moment."
Dixon High School and the Broadcast Club extend their gratitude to the Donaldson Foundation for its commitment to youth education and technology. This gift will continue to benefit students for years to come, serving as the backbone for the club’s operations and inspiring the next generation of videographers, commentators, creative artists and production specialists.
The Donaldson Foundation was founded in 1966 and is the main vehicle of the Donaldson Company, Inc for charitable giving. The Foundation supports organizations and programs which further education initiatives in the communities where their employees live including Dixon, Illinois.
