Brown Sugar Film Earns CMA Award
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Anderson, Ind. — An Anderson University student-produced film is making headlines once again. Brown Sugar, which was screened at two Indiana film festivals this fall, recently earned first place in the long documentary category at the College Media Association Film and Audio Festival.
Brown Sugar tells the story of black women from three different generations as they experience an evolution of self-confidence in a society that has long diminished that confidence. The film was produced by Oluwanifemi Adejumobi and Alphonso Blackwell III, edited by Leo Marrero, and directed by Adejumobi.
“It’s quite an honor to be recognized because it means that this story was well-received,” said Adejumobi, a Lagos, Nigeria, native and 2021 graduate. “That’s important because minorities, especially black women, need more platforms to have their stories shared.”
The College Media Association welcomes submissions from all schools regardless of size and affiliation, which is another feather in Brown Sugar’s cap as it competed against films from larger institutions.
“The film wouldn’t have been made if not for Anderson,” said Adejumobi. “Professor Jack Lugar and former professor David Armstrong were quite supportive of our project and offered constructive feedback and suggestions.”
“Our students succeeded because they first developed a compelling story of current relevance,” said Jack Lugar, professor of cinema media arts. “After that, they executed a quality production with their video and audio work, selection of onscreen personalities, and meticulous editing. Between their diligent work and implementation of talent and skill, they were able to create a remarkable documentary.”
Anderson University is on a mission to educate students for lives of faith and service, offering more than 60 undergraduate majors, 30 three-year degrees, 20 NCAA Division III intercollegiate sports, alongside adult and graduate programs. The private, liberal arts institution is fully accredited and recognized among top colleges for its business, computer science, cybersecurity, dance, engineering, nursing, and teacher education programs. Anderson University was established in 1917 in Anderson, Indiana, by the Church of God.