Initiative coincides with launch of digital storytelling major to empower student creators
Students in Iowa State University’s Greenlee School of Journalism and Communication will soon be editing video, creating data visualizations and designing messages using powerful Adobe software on their own devices.
Beginning in fall 2026, all primary majors in the Greenlee School will be provided a license for the Adobe Creative Cloud suite of products. The suite includes industry-standard software such as InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator, Firefly and After Effects, which are essential for modern media production.
“We want our students to feel inspired and empowered from the moment they arrive on campus until they graduate,” said Tracy Lucht, director of the Greenlee School. “That means ensuring they have access to the professional tools they need.”
Previously, access to Adobe Creative Cloud was limited to computer labs and certain course enrollments.
Under this new initiative, students will receive a license when they join the Greenlee School and retain access as long as they remain in the school. This change is designed to foster continuous skill development, allowing students to experiment and create both inside and outside the traditional classroom setting.
This expanded access coincides with the launch of the school’s newest major, Digital Storytelling. This program joins a robust lineup of existing majors, including Advertising, Journalism, Public Relations, and Sports Media and Communication.
The initiative was made possible with philanthropic support from alumni and friends of the Greenlee School and College of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
“This kind of student support is available because of the generosity of our donors. We are deeply grateful, and we know students are, too,” Lucht said.