The university debuted a 30-minute sesquicentennial documentary that captures the transformative journeys of three Class of 2023 students, including Neeley School of Business graduate John Freeny.
October 17, 2023
By Amber Billops
A documentary that followed three students through their college journey at TCU debuted in a special screening of the movie at TCU Neeley’s Shaddock Auditorium on October 11. The full-length documentary was publicly available the following week.
The Sesquicentennial film, titled “Legacy: TCU Documentary from TCU’s 150th Graduating Class,” provided a unique glimpse into the lives of the students, including Neeley School of Business graduate John Freeny. When they began filming, the students and filmmakers had no idea they would experience a worldwide pandemic, forcing everyone off campus for part of their education. The film culminated with the May 2023 graduation ceremony.
At the debut screening, TCU Chancellor Victor Boschini and President Daniel Pullin introduced the movie and led a discussion with the students and film producers afterward, showcasing the essence of TCU, characterized by its spirit of collaboration and excellence.
In the documentary, Freeny described his initial surprise at being approached for the project. As he progressed through the documentary, he said it allowed him to reflect on his life and appreciate his college experience more fully.
Freeny, who now works an analyst at DaVita in Denver, said his time at TCU and his college experience were deeply impactful.
The documentary follows the personal and academic journeys of two other remarkable students from TCU's Class of 2023. Thien An Nguyen, a biology major, shared her realization about the value of time and intentionality in her college experience. Olivia Fannon, now a Project Manager at EPIC, spoke about the importance of relationships and learning through mistakes.
During her welcome comments, TCU Neeley Interim Dean Hettie Richardson said, "I think this documentary really reflects what is special about TCU, why we are here for 150 years and are going to be here for at least 150 more."
Brad Thompson, the director of Student Activities, was moved to tears by the transformation of TCU students showcased in the documentary, emphasizing that TCU offers the best student experience in the country.
Alyssa Vaught, a producer at Red Productions, revealed that the aim of the documentary was to provide an authentic look into the lives of the students, not merely as a promotional tool for TCU.
Red Sanders of Red Productions, described his excitement at chronicling this pivotal time in the university's history. The project, spanning four years, captured both the highs and lows, illustrating the strength of the TCU community in adversity.
