About the Project

The David Letterman Learning Experience (DLLE) is an ongoing immersive learning project started in 2018 after Ball State's most famous alumnus shared a collection of memorabilia from his life and career with Ball State. The DLLE leverages this relationship with Dave to create experimental learning opportunities for students. Through the Center for Emerging Media Design and Development, the DLLE will advance innovation projects that connect pop culture, technology, and creative collaboration. 

From Muncie, With Glass

Set of three Ball jars

About the Project

The David Letterman Learning Experience is developing a multimedia exhibition that brings Ball State University’s world-renowned Ball Jar collection to life through innovative storytelling and digital engagement for audiences around the world.

Project Partners

Project Lead

  • Dr. Jennifer Palilonis
  • Dr. Kevin Moloney

Partners

  • Center for Emerging Media Design & Development
  • Honors College at Ball State
  • College of Communication, Information, and Media at Ball State
  • Minnetrista

Project Deliverables

Multimedia Exhibition

An interactive exhibition will showcase Ball State’s Ball Jar collection through storytelling, digital experiences, and interactive displays.

Digital Content and Interpretive Resources

Digital resources will highlight the history, cultural impact, and significance of the Ball Jar collection.

Public Engagement and Educational Programming

Programming will connect students, historians, collectors, and community audiences with the collection.

Expanded Access Through Technology

Technology-driven experiences will extend access to the collection for audiences beyond campus.

Black and White photo of the Wysor Grand Opera House

About the Project

The David Letterman Learning Experience will create a traveling interactive exhibit that highlights Muncie’s vaudeville theater history, drawing on newly discovered photographs and partnerships with Muncie Civic Theatre and the Delaware County Historical Society. The exhibit will engage residents and visitors as part of Delaware County’s Bicentennial celebration.

Project Partners

Project Lead

  • Dr. Jennifer Palilonis
  • Dr. Kevin Moloney

Partners

  • Center for Emerging Media Design & Development
  • College of Communication, Information, and Media at Ball State
  • Muncie Civic Theatre

Project Deliverables

Traveling Interactive Exhibit

A traveling exhibit will explore Muncie’s theater and performing arts history during Delaware County’s Bicentennial celebration.

Digital Storytelling and Historical Content

Digital content will feature archival photographs, performer profiles, local theaters, and cultural landmarks.

Community Engagement and Educational Programming

Programming developed with community partners will engage residents and visitors through local theater history.

Public History Resources

Resources will document and share Muncie’s performing arts legacy for current and future audiences.

Bob Ross TV Studio

About the Project

The David Letterman Learning Experience will develop the Muncie Pop Culture Museum, an interactive destination that celebrates the people, stories, and cultural moments that have made Muncie a recognizable part of American popular culture. Through immersive learning exhibits and digital experiences, the museum will connect visitors to Muncie’s unique influence on entertainment, media, art, and storytelling.

Project Partners

Project Lead

  • Dr. Kevin Moloney
  • Dr. Jennifer Palilonis

Partners

  • Center for Emerging Media Design & Development
  • College of Communication, Information, and Media at Ball State
  • Destination Muncie

Project Deliverables

Interactive Museum Exhibits

Immersive exhibits will showcase Muncie’s impact on popular culture through multimedia learning experiences.

Digital Storytelling and Cultural Archives

Digital archives will preserve and share stories, artifacts, and media connected to Muncie’s creative legacy.

Community Engagement and Educational Programming

Events, special exhibits, and learning opportunities will connect visitors with Muncie’s cultural history.

Tourism and Cultural Promotion

The project will position Muncie as a destination for popular culture, creativity, and heritage.