deadCenter University wrapped up its 13th year with new programming for both students and educators, giving Oklahomans of all experience levels a chance to learn the ins and outs of filmmaking.

The free film education initiative, a partnership between deadCenter Film and colleges across the state, hosted hands-on camps in June at Oklahoma City Community College, Rose State College and Oklahoma City University.

"deadCenter University is built to help students develop their skills no matter where they're starting from," said Victor Caballero, director of education and outreach for deadCenter Film. "What matters most is a passion for storytelling and a positive, collaborative attitude."

Students Create Award-Winning Film

At OCCC, 20 high school students teamed up to produce the short film Lost and Found, which tells the story of a homeless teen who finds hope through music. The project, directed by student Makinley Paige Montez, premiered at the 24th Annual deadCenter Film Festival and has since been selected to nine film festivals, winning Best High School Film five times.

Lucas J. Jackson, who operated the camera for Lost and Found and returned as editor for this year’s project Eleanor, said the program’s biggest impact wasn’t just technical.

"As much as I could talk about the experience of being on a set and learning efficient workflows, the biggest benefit I've gotten from these programs are the connections and new friends I made during my time at dCU," Jackson said. "I may go to educate myself and expand my skillset, yet I keep coming back for the amazing people I get to see and work with."

A New Story at Rose State

This year’s new short film Eleanor was produced during the dCU camp at Rose State College. The story, also written by Montez, follows a dancer whose life changes after a medical diagnosis.

Students handled everything from pre-production to editing, guided by instructors and industry professionals. Marcus Mallard, professor of film studies at Rose State and a dCU camp instructor, said students learned not just filmmaking skills but how to work as a team.

"They worked this project from start to finish, and it was a delight to get to see their work pay off," Mallard said. "Seeing the look of accomplishment on everyone's faces is something I won't soon forget."

Students filled every key crew position. Hogan Hilary worked as a camera operator, and Aly Zongker served as the electrician and key grip.

Keagan Sponsler, who was the 1st assistant camera and composed the score for Eleanor, said the collaborative environment was eye-opening.

"Getting to be part of such a great team that puts in such important effort was so eye-opening to me," Sponsler said. "It helped me realize just how important a strong community is in an industry such as film."

Emerald Chapin, the film’s script supervisor, said she walked away with both new friendships and career inspiration.

"I benefited a lot since I learned how to be a script supervisor and I learned what a typical film set is like," Chapin said.

Training for Teachers

In addition to the student camps, dCU launched its first workshop for teachers last year. Held at Oklahoma City University, the program helped 12 educators learn how to teach film in their classrooms. It was led by Bryan Cardinale-Powell, the architect of Oklahoma’s media arts standards.

Caballero said dCU is committed to creating access points for students and educators alike. He also said their goal is to demystify the film industry and show people they can be part of it, right here in Oklahoma.

Eleanor will screen at the 25th deadCenter Film Festival at 1 p.m. Saturday, June 14, at Harkins Bricktown.

Follow @deadCenterEducation on Instagram and deadCenter Education on Facebook for updates.