The legacy of a University of Alabama educator who inspired his students to work toward improving their communities is the subject of a thirty-minute documentary from the University of Alabama Center for Public Television.

Dr. John L. Blackburn was a long-time professor and student affairs administrator at the university and upon his retirement a premiere leadership development and civic engagement program, the Blackburn Institute, was founded in his honor. The documentary, “Change Agents: The Blackburn Institute Story” shows that Blackburn worked with the Institute until his death and his influence is still strong today.

“My vision is to develop a community of ethical leaders who collaboratively accomplish good and noble ends. A good community is comprised of more than one generation; embraces transcending values that esteem each citizen; and creates a sense of oneness where individuals set aside personal gain, benefit, or goal for the sake of the group.” – Dr. John L. Blackburn

The Blackburn Institute’s mission is to develop a network of diverse leaders who understand the challenges facing the state of Alabama and the nation and who are committed to serving as agents of positive change. Over its twenty year life, the Institute has built a network connecting 500 Fellows, students who have gone through the program, with a broad base of business and government leaders.

The Institute contracted with the University of Alabama Center for Public Television to produce this full length documentary to honor the legacy of Dr. Blackburn and capture the memories of early members of the organization. The documentary premiered at the Blackburn Institute’s 2016 Annual Symposium.

Also produced as a part of this project was a video introduction to the Institute which is available on the Blackburn Institute website.

Produced by The University of Alabama Center for Public Television
Executive Producer: Amy Eifler Martin
Producer: Max Shores
Cinematography by Preston Sullivan