Bergen Community College Doubles Down On Digital

PARAMUS, NJ — Though the coronavirus certainly can't be thanked for much, Bergen Community College used the pandemic as an opportunity to expand its digital footprint.

According to a news release from the college, as COVID-19 sent students off campus, the college began to expand its social media presence, launched new communication vehicles and revamped their website, Bergen.edu.

“The pandemic has led many to proclaim ‘it’s a new world in higher education,’ and that’s certainly true when you consider the enhanced focus on digital engagement,” said Bergen Executive Director of Public Relations, Community and Cultural Affairs Larry Hlavenka, who oversees the college’s digital assets.

“I’m proud that, even before COVID-19, Bergen recognized the importance of digital media and devoted resources toward bolstering its efforts, which has now placed the College in a leadership position when it comes to digital innovation."

As part of this new eye toward innovation, the college moved the "digital assets" under the umbrella of public relations, which included web developer Frank Hablawi moving into that department.

Hablawi is credited with the redesign of the college's website, which is slated for a July 1 relaunch.

Future projects in development under the auspices of the college’s digital assets include a Bergen app, on-campus video signage and institution-managed content on websites such as Wikipedia.