In-Touch and Channel 25: Bringing Cross Keys Village Together Every Day
For decades, In-Touch has been a cornerstone of Cross Keys Village, providing residents with daily updates, engaging content, and a sense of community. More than just a show, In-Touch has become a valued tradition, delivering essential information in a fun and interactive format.
Airing each weekday at 8:30am on Channel 25, In-Touch highlights campus news, dining specials at Cross Keys Village, and a variety of creative segments. Viewers can enjoy daily devotionals, fun facts, and live games where they have the opportunity to call in and compete for the title of daily winner.
The origins of In-Touch trace back to the mid-1980s, when it began as a simple production with a single camera, a tripod, and cue cards. Over the years, advancements in technology have transformed the program into a more dynamic production, now utilizing a four-camera setup to enhance the viewing experience.
At the heart of In-Touch is Cindy Hockensmith, who has overseen the program since 1998. Now in her 27th year leading the show, Cindy reflects on how much it has evolved while maintaining its most important element—the dedication of its volunteers. Their creativity and enthusiasm bring energy to each episode, making every broadcast unique. During a recent visit, we had the opportunity to observe the dynamic duo of Don Wilkinson and Linda Titzell, who add their own special touch to the program.
Channel 25 covers live events around campus, ensuring all residents can stay engaged and informed about the activities happening in the community. From broadcasting the annual Chicken BBQ to hosting special guests—including reality television personalities Jon and Kate Gosselin from Jon & Kate Plus 8 in 2008—Channel 25 has played an integral role in sharing memorable moments with the community.
One of the most memorable initiatives in Channel 25’s history was its involvement in an intergenerational STEM project with local students, linked to the space shuttle Endeavour’s STS-108 mission. This unique collaboration allowed students and Cross Keys Village residents to track the growth of soybean plants in space, an experiment that captivated the community as they followed its progress through Channel 25. Notably, the plants exhibited enhanced growth in space compared to those on Earth, making this project an exciting and educational experience for all involved.
Whether you’re looking for a good laugh, want to stay updated on what’s happening around campus, or just need a friendly voice to start your day, In-Touch is here for you. It’s more than just a show—it’s a part of life at Cross Keys Village.
