Title: Program Chair, College of Fine Arts and Production
Years at GCU: 9
Academic degrees:
- B.A.-English, BFA-Media Arts, University of Arizona
- MFA-Film, Boston University
- M.S.-Psychology, University of Phoenix
What is your most notable accomplishment in your field, and why was it important?
Within the past couple of years, I have transitioned into the world of screenwriting and have sold a few scripts. For someone who hates sitting at a computer for a long period of time, I’m both happy and surprised by this twist of fate.
What are you most passionate about in your field and why?
I love that a good film is eternal. With changing tastes and technology, many films and series are forgotten or not as highly regarded as they were when first released, but some films and television shows still are as respected today as they once were. It’s amazing that someone brand new to a film can still be as excited by it and engrossed in its story as audiences were when it first was released 50 years ago. I think the key is an understanding of humanity -- audiences always will be able to connect.
What is a memorable moment you had in class, and what does that reveal about your teaching style?
My most favorite moments are when we are having a roundtable discussion about the projects students are working on. These conversations often lead to the challenges someone is experiencing, and other students always chime in with suggestions or offers to help. It shows the collaborative nature of filmmaking but also the generous spirit of our students. One of my favorite aspects of film is the community building that occurs, and the opportunity to do that within a classroom is rewarding.
What do you like to do for fun in your spare time?
I love reading mysteries, particularly from the Golden Age. Getting a Kindle a few years back was both the best thing and the worst because it allows me to just buy another book after finishing one. However, we also have quite an extensive library of physical books, which I plan to keep.
What is something interesting about you that most people don't know?
I get bored fairly easily (which isn’t the unknown fact), but that has resulted in me trying almost any sort of craft or building project. I have learned to knit, crochet, sew, paint, do basic woodworking, cook, bake, play piano, etc. I will stick with something until I get a basic proficiency, and then I’ll move on. It gives me a broad sense of experiences and knowledge but very little mastery of anything.
