Alumni Panel Underscores Department’s Growing Impact Across Creative Industries

Five accomplished alumni from the University of Georgia’s Department of Theatre and Film returned to campus this week to share insights from careers spanning film, television, arts administration, production technology, and fundraising. Moderated by theatre major Abby McWethy (BA, ‘27), the panel showcased the department’s growing influence across creative industries and affirmed the enduring value of a UGA education. The event was a collaboration between the department, UGA’s Career Center, and the UGA Mentor Program.

Panelists included Adetinpo Thomas (BA ’11), an actor and producer with credits in The Color Purple, Hawkeye, and The Outsider; Paige Pulaski Jones (BA ’13), a content operations and technology manager at Warner Bros. Discovery; Michael Wolmer (BA ’08), a senior sales associate at Barbizon Lighting and IATSE member; Tom von Dohlen (BA ’18), filmmaker and founder of Defiant Lens Productions; and Collins Desselle (BA ’11), associate director of strategic institutional advancement at the Alliance Theatre.

Throughout the discussion, alumni emphasized the power of relationships formed at UGA. Thomas spoke about “networking horizontally”—building lasting collaborations with peers rather than relying solely on industry hierarchies. Jones echoed this, noting that her closest college friendships became professional anchors. Von Dohlen, who routinely hires UGA graduates on film sets, described the alumni community as “a creative engine that keeps working long after graduation.”

Students were encouraged to pursue internships and job opportunities earlier than expected. Jones explained that major media companies often recruit “early talent” months in advance, while Desselle noted that organizations like the Alliance Theatre make summer hires during winter. Thomas urged students to start creating their own work immediately, citing festivals and student categories as key early career pathways.

When reflecting on their most formative experiences at UGA, panelists pointed to a blend of rigorous coursework and hands-on production. Wolmer credited Senior Seminar and technically demanding shows with preparing him for the fast-paced entertainment world. Jones said independent projects taught her initiative and problem-solving—skills essential to navigating creative teams, legal requirements, and tech infrastructure. Thomas highlighted the impact of applied theatre and technical classes, while Desselle emphasized how theatre and English together gave her a foundation in communication and collaboration. Von Dohlen cited movement, solo performance, and political science as shaping his approach to directing narrative film.

The conversation also addressed shifting industry norms, particularly the rise of artificial intelligence. Thomas, Jones, and von Dohlen cautioned students to safeguard their creative integrity while staying informed. Jones described strict corporate limitations on AI use, and Thomas stressed that no algorithm can replicate the lived experiences actors bring to their work. Von Dohlen added that while AI imagery may be trendy, “you are the well from which originality flows.”

Students asked practical questions about outreach, sustainability, and career evolution. Panelists agreed that sincerity—especially in cold emails—makes a stronger impression than formulaic messaging. Jones reminded students that UGA alumni actively support one another, and Wolmer emphasized the importance of LinkedIn as a professional tool. On maintaining balance, the panelists advocated for good routines, rest, and nutrition, noting that health is key to longevity in creative fields.

As their careers have evolved, each panelist affirmed the continued relevance of their UGA education. Desselle now champions arts education and community advancement; Wolmer shifted from design to programming and sales; Jones supports creative personnel within corporate systems; Thomas works fluidly across acting and producing; and von Dohlen builds original films and production opportunities from the ground up.

For university leadership, alumni, and prospective students, the event served as a testament to the Department of Theatre and Film’s rising reputation for cultivating curious, innovative, adaptable, thoughtful, and industry-ready artists. As the panel made clear, UGA graduates are not only thriving in creative sectors—they are helping shape their future.