The "Next 100" Initiative at Hollywood State University
The New York Times, January 2023
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Hollywood State University (HSU), a cornerstone of entertainment education for a century, today unveiled its ambitious "Next 100" initiative, a $500 million campaign designed to propel the institution into its second century of excellence.
The initiative, announced by HSU President Dr. William Danforth at a star-studded gala celebrating the university's 100th anniversary in 2023, aims to modernize facilities, increase scholarships, and establish cutting-edge programs in emerging fields of entertainment.
"As we celebrate our storied past, we're actively shaping our future," Dr. Danforth told the gathering of alumni, industry leaders, and current students. "The 'Next 100' initiative ensures that HSU remains at the forefront of entertainment education for generations to come."
Key components of the initiative include:
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A $200 million investment in state-of-the-art facilities, including a new Virtual Production Stage and an Immersive Media Lab.
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$150 million earmarked for scholarships and financial aid, aiming to make HSU more accessible to a diverse pool of talented students.
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The establishment of new programs in artificial intelligence for filmmaking and immersive media experiences, with $100 million allocated for curriculum development and faculty hiring.
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$50 million for research initiatives and industry partnerships to keep HSU at the cutting edge of entertainment technology and practices.
The announcement has garnered widespread support from industry heavyweights. Oscar-winning director and HSU alumna Martin Scorsese (Class of '66) pledged a $10 million donation, stating, "HSU gave me the tools to succeed in this industry. It's crucial that we support the next generation of storytellers."
Major studios and streaming platforms have also expressed interest in partnering with HSU on its new initiatives. Netflix Co-CEO Ted Sarandos praised the university's forward-thinking approach: "HSU's 'Next 100' initiative aligns perfectly with where the industry is heading. We're excited to collaborate on developing talent for the future of entertainment."
The initiative comes at a time of rapid change in the entertainment landscape, with streaming, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence reshaping how content is created and consumed.
"The entertainment industry is evolving at breakneck speed," noted Dr. Danforth. "With the 'Next 100' initiative, we're not just keeping pace—we're setting the pace."
The university plans to roll out the initiative over the next five years, with the new Virtual Production Stage slated to open in fall 2025. The first cohort of students in the AI for Filmmaking program is expected to start in the 2024-2025 academic year.
As Hollywood State University embarks on this ambitious journey, it reaffirms its commitment to nurturing the next generation of entertainment professionals. With the "Next 10" initiative, HSU is poised to write the next chapter in its illustrious history, ensuring its place as a premier institution for entertainment education well into the 21st century.