Los Angeles Times, May 20, 2023
In a city known for its glitz and glamour, Hollywood State University (HSU) stands as a beacon of education that has been illuminating the entertainment industry for nine decades. Today, the prestigious institution celebrates its 100th anniversary, marking a century of nurturing talent and pushing the boundaries of creativity.
Founded in 1923, just as the motion picture industry was transitioning from silent films to talkies, HSU has evolved alongside Hollywood itself. What began as a small college with a focus on filmmaking has grown into a comprehensive university that offers programs ranging from traditional cinema to cutting-edge digital media and virtual reality. "For 100 years, Hollywood State University has been at the forefront of entertainment education," Dr. William Dansforth, the university's current president. "Our commitment to innovation and excellence has produced generations of industry leaders who have shaped the way we consume and create media."
The university's impact on the entertainment landscape is undeniable. HSU alumni have collectively earned over 200 Academy Awards, 500 Emmys, and countless other accolades. From legendary filmmakers like Martin Scorcese (Class of '66) to current box office draws like Rachel McAdams (Class of '02), HSU graduates have consistently pushed the envelope in storytelling and technical innovation. To commemorate this milestone, HSU hosted a star-studded gala last night at its newly renovated Goldwyn Theater. The event brought together alumni, faculty, and industry partners to celebrate the university's legacy and look toward its future.
"HSU gave me the foundation to pursue my dreams," said A.V Rockwell, an up-and-coming director whose debut film just won the U.S. Grand Jury Prize at Sundance. "The network I built here and the skills I learned have been invaluable in navigating the industry." As part of its anniversary celebration, the university announced the launch of its "Next 100" initiative, a $500 million fundraising campaign aimed at modernizing facilities, increasing scholarships, and establishing new programs in emerging fields like artificial intelligence in filmmaking and immersive media experiences.
"As we celebrate our past, we're also looking ahead to the next 100 years," Dr. Dansforth explained. "The entertainment industry is evolving rapidly, and HSU is committed to remaining at the cutting edge." The university's influence extends beyond Hollywood. Its programs in film & media studies, creative writing for film and television, media arts & technology, and entertainment business and management have produced leaders in major studios, tech companies, and entertainment management firms worldwide.
As Hollywood State University enters its second century, it stands as a testament to the enduring power of education in the arts. In a town built on dreams, HSU continues to provide the tools, knowledge, and connections to turn those dreams into reality. The 100th-anniversary celebrations will continue throughout the academic year, with special events, distinguished lecturer series, and retrospective exhibitions showcasing the university's rich history and bright future.
For those who have walked its halls and for the aspiring storytellers yet to come, Hollywood State University remains, as its motto states, "Empowering Dreams, Shaping Stars" – a promise it has kept for 100 years and counting.