The History Of
Hollywood State University
William Charles Sullivan, 1924
Since its founding in 1923, Hollywood State University (HSU) has not only created an enduring history of educational advancement in the entertainment arts, but it has also transformed the landscape of the film industry. In the early 1930s, the university's stature began to transcend national borders as a dozen graduate and professional schools were formed alongside the nucleus of undergraduate College. The schools of film (1935), television (1952) and social media (1996), as well as the Hollywood State University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (1947) have all played pivotal roles in shaping the industry.
William Charles Sullivan, a pioneering figure in Hollywood during the vibrant era of the 1920s, was more than just a man of his time. He was a man driven by an unwavering passion for storytelling and filmmaking. Born on March 12, 1887, in Los Angeles, California, Sullivan's love for the craft was evident from a young age. He embarked on his career in the emerging film industry of the early 20th century, working in various capacities behind the scenes at studios including Angeles Motion Picture Company, Foundation Studios and Worldwide Film Corporation.
By the early 1920s, the University’s founder and first president, Sullivan, was already an accomplished actor (Love and the Devil, 1917), director (A Cottage in Princeton, 1919), and producer (They Always Run from the Sun, 1922).
As Sullivan immersed himself in the world of cinema, he recognized a pressing need. He saw the necessity for a pool of talented actors and crew members to bring his creative visions to life on the silver screen. Frustrated by the lack of skilled professionals, he conceived a solution that would not only benefit his own projects but also contribute to the film industry's overall growth and development.
In 1923, Sullivan founded Hollywood State University, a groundbreaking institution dedicated to educating and training aspiring filmmakers, television creators, and actors. Located in the heart of Hollywood, the university quickly became a hub of creativity and innovation, attracting ambitious individuals from across the country eager to learn the craft of filmmaking from the best in the business.
The university nurtured a collaborative environment by offering comprehensive programs in film production, television & radio broadcasting, screenwriting, and acting. Sullivan himself actively shaped the curriculum, encouraging students to refine their skills and unleash their creativity in a supportive and inspiring setting.
As the university gained prominence within the industry, Sullivan continued to pursue his own career as an actor, director, and producer. He helmed several successful films during the 1920s & 1930s, earning critical acclaim (as well as 11 Academy Awards) for his innovative storytelling and cinematic vision. His dedication to both his craft and the education of future generations cemented his legacy as a trailblazer in Hollywood history.
Sullivan passed on February 17, 1986.
Throughout his life, William Charles Sullivan remained committed to pushing filmmaking's boundaries and nurturing aspiring artists' talents. His contributions to the industry endure through the lasting impact of Hollywood State University continues to inspire and educate filmmakers, actors, and producers to this day. Sullivan's legacy serves as a testament to the power of vision, determination, and a deep-seated passion for the art of cinema.