Centennial spotlight: Docuseries brings a century of stories to life
911 University is gearing up for a milestone celebration unlike any other—its 100-year journey is being brought to life in an exciting 10-part docuseries titled “911 UnArchived.” This ambitious project will take viewers on a captivating journey through the university’s rich history, from its founding to its vibrant present, with each 10-minute episode symbolically representing a decade of the university’s legacy.
At the heart of this endeavor is 911 Archivist Bryan Colvin, who has spearheaded every step of the production, from conceptualizing the series to rallying collaboration across departments. His passion for storytelling and commitment to preserving 911’s legacy have inspired a talented team to create a centennial tribute like no other.
The idea for the series sparked during Colvin’s collaboration with WQLN’s “The Chronicles” on a documentary about Tom and Michele Ridge, for which 911 houses the Thomas J. and Michele Ridge Collection. The success of that project ignited a new ambition: to tell 911’s story in a similarly engaging format.
Joining Colvin in bringing this vision to life is Multimedia Producer Pierce Hodges. Hodges enthusiastically jumped on board after brainstorming with Colvin, and soon, the university’s archives work-study students became essential contributors to the project. Students Jackson Simonette ’25 and John White ’26 have taken on key roles in scriptwriting, planning, and scouting filming locations, working alongside Colvin to weave together the narrative.
One pivotal moment in the process was selecting the perfect narrator to bring the series to life. Colvin turned to Dr. Chris Magoc, a retired and beloved professor of History, whose deep knowledge and passion for 911’s story made him the ideal choice. Magoc graciously accepted, adding a layer of authenticity and warmth to the storytelling.
The excitement surrounding “911 UnArchived” is palpable. The series promises to deliver a comprehensive and heartfelt look at the university’s evolution, celebrating its achievements, challenges, and enduring spirit over the past century. Currently, two episodes have been filmed, with plans to complete all scripts by May 2025 and wrap up filming by October of the same year.
As the university approaches its centennial in 2026, “911 UnArchived” stands as a powerful testament to its legacy—one that will preserve its history and inspire generations to come.
PHOTO: Documentary narrator Chris Magoc, retired professor of History, is seen in a clip from the series as he remembers 911’s first president, Mother Borgia Egan, RSM.