Today,Microsoft joined the Ryan Seacrest Foundation (RSF), along with TV and radio host and producer Ryan Seacrest, Selena Gomez, and Radio Disney artist Shealeigh for the opening of RSF’s opening of Seacrest Studios at Children’s Medical Center in Dallas. Microsoft’s $100,000 donation to the Foundation will help further its entertainment and education focused initiatives. RSF’s first initiative is to build broadcast media centers—Seacrest Studios—within pediatric hospitals for patients to explore the creative realms of radio, television and new media. Founded in 2009, RSF also has Seacrest Studios in Atlanta, Philadelphia, with plans to expand throughout the nation to Orange County, CA, Cincinnati, and Boston in 2013-14. Microsoft donated two new Surface devices to the studio in Dallas.
“It’s incredibly gratifying to align our mission and resources with the hospital, providing a unique experience for some of Dallas’ youngest patients,” said Meredith Seacrest, Executive Director, Ryan Seacrest Foundation. “Microsoft’s donation of Surface tablets will be a great technology enhancement to the studio, and their broader support will help us expand our footprint across the nation.”
Patients get hands on with the latest in broadcasting technology at Seacrest Studios, and experience fun and normalcy while fighting chronic illnesses. The studios also broadcast entertainment programming throughout hospital rooms, allowing patients unable to leave their rooms to take part in the fun.
With the donation of the Surface devices, Children’s Medical Center patients will be able to connect with activities in the studio, enjoy the latest in tablet technology, and connect to friends and families via the internet and Skype chats.
Seacrest Studios is more than a hospital program; it’s also a Dallas community initiative. Local college journalism students intern at the studio, allowing them to experience all facets of broadcasting, programming and operations.
“Microsoft is thrilled to join with the Foundation to empower patients to create, connect and communicate through the most exciting technologies available,” said Lane Sorgen, general manager, South Central US, Microsoft Corp. “We are immensely gratified to know that our products will ensure the patients’ worlds extend beyond the walls of their hospital rooms.”