Ball State's Institute for Digital Entertainment and Education (IDEE) has received the Eli Lilly Quality Advocate Award, the company's most prestigious award.

"This award is Lilly's major internal recognition award, which typically does not go to an outside group," said Rodger Smith, director of IDEE. "The fact Ball State received this award is a great achievement."

Eli Lilly and Company recognized IDEE for its contributions in partnership with ImmediateInfo, a small company created by Ball State graduates that used software created by IDEE to assist with Lilly operations. The software and a variety of media assets were used to create an interactive awards site on Lilly's intranet.

"Lilly and the Lilly Endowment have been important contributors to the health of Indiana and to Ball State. This award feels like we were able in some small way to say thank you," Smith said. "It was proof positive that the software application we developed, VisiSwap, could be of service to an outside organization."

IDEE is part of the Digital Exchange initiative created by a second $20 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. The Digital Exchange cultivates new immersive learning opportunities and innovative research through the exploration of how digital media technology and devices affect the way we get information, function at work and seek entertainment. IDEE combines digital media learning with the creation of new content and distribution. It fosters an environment where students are mentored and gain professional-level experience.

By Ashley Keebler