Date of Award

2006

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Art

First Advisor

Michael Castro

Second Advisor

Peter Carlos

Abstract

This documentary is on Dennis C. Spellmann the former President of Lindenwood University. (March 1989-August 2006) The purpose of the documentary is to show Dennis Spellman's influence and dedication in turning Lindenwood College from a failing college into a thriving University. It concentrates on showing what it took for Dennis Spellmann to save the college.

The documentary is comprised of interviews with family members and co-workers and uses pictures without the use of narration to cover such subject matter as Spellman's birth, childhood, journey to Missouri, condition of Lindenwood College, and several significant changes that Dennis Spellmann made at Lindenwood University. These changes were instrumental in transforming the once small college on the brink of financial insolvency to a growing and financially solid university. It also spends a good portion showing Dr Spellman's personality and his attitude towards Lindenwood's faculty, St. Charles City, and the students of Linden wood University. This documentary also stands as a brief testimony to the work and dedication of Dennis C. Spellmann.

The documentary is 40 minutes and 37 seconds in length, and contains interviews with the following individuals: Sue Spellmann (Wife of Dennis Spellmann), Sheryl Guffey (Daughter of Dennis Spellmann), Ryan Guffey (Grandson of Dennis Spellmann), Betty Detmer (Sister of Dennis Spellmann), Janet Hooper (Sister of Dennis Spellmann), Alva Spellman (Mother of Dennis Spellmann), Jim Shoemake (Chairman of the Board of Directors, Linden wood University), Mike Wall (Dean of the School of Communications, Linden wood University), Marsha Parker ( Dean of Fine and Performing Arts, Linden wood University, Terry Russell (Dean of Students), Rev. Michael Mason (Religion Professor, Lindenwood University), John Primrose (CEO Greater St. Louis Council, Boy Scouts of America), Patti York (Mayor of the City of St. Charles, Missouri), and Steve E. Ehlmann (County Executive of St. Charles County, Missouri).

The documentary crew was: Peter Carlos, Ed Voss (Executive Directors); Daniel Wilhelm (Producer); Joe Richter, Ed Voss, Daniel Wilhelm (Technical Directors); Karan Soni, Neal Steinbach, Daniel Wilhelm (Camera Operators); Davina Horton (Key Grip); Daniel Porch (Driver); Daniel Wilhelm (Editor).

Additional Materials used from: St. Louis Post-Dispatch; STL Today; NBC News; Freeplaymusic.com; Lindenwood University Archives. Information such as the college life of Dennis Spellmann, other colleges he worked for, his Military service and Boy Scout history were not covered in detail.

This project also includes a written narrative of the projects progress including the development of ideas, content, and production process.

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