Our Narrators & Films

2023: Belonging

“I Approve This Message”

Paul Schreiber discusses the nuances of being mayor of Ypsilanti, including his involvement with affordable housing.

“Against the Grain”

Gail Wolkoff shares how childhood challenges shaped her as an educator and inspired her to create a safe space for high schoolers in need.

“Hearing the Unheard”

Cheryl Farmer shares her experiences in the male-dominated fields of medicine and politics, including her commitment to public health.

“Country of Immigrants” 

Joe Malayang shares his story of growing up in the Philippines during World War II, joining the ministry, and moving his family to Michigan.

“Never Too Late”

Tom Kosh discusses the evolution of his identity, key relationships in his adult life, and the importance of finding a partner to anchor you. 

“Find Your Community”

Joe Kosh reflects on his life as a gay man in a non-progressive world, including his relationship with the religious community. 

“Equity and Fairness”

Kathy Hunscher shares snapshots from her childhood, her move to Ann Arbor as a young adult, and her career as an equity-minded school counselor in Saline. 

“Every Single Heartbeat”

Nancy Fry focuses on the importance of family, sharing stories that stretch from her childhood to the present.

“Rebels Who Found Causes”

Frank Joyce shares valuable lessons from his involvement with the civil rights movement, including work in our local community. 

2022: Resilience

“A Life of Service to Others”


Diana McKnight-Morton walks us through the changes that she encountered in her life, how they shaped her love for helping others, and her experience with the Legacies Project.

“Connection to a People”


Evelyn Neuhaus takes us through her proudest moments in Jewish filmmaking and shares the journey with the people she has met along the way.

"We’re All Here for a Reason”


George Shirley shares stories from his childhood, his life in the military and the military band, and his rise to a renowned musical career.

“Something Greater Than Me”


Ernie Rogers shares his story of life after escaping the Holocaust as a toddler, working through a gambling addiction as an adolescent, and growing up in Detroit and Ann Arbor.

“Behind a Mother’s Eyes”


Jean Simons shares the wisdom of a mother who has shown perseverance and strength, time and time again.

“Find Your Cup of Tea”


Harold Simons shares stories of family and his coaching career, including his emphasis to athletes on the importance of dedication, focus, and perseverance.

“Make a Better World”


Alan Haber recounts a life of political activism, from seeing the destruction of war in Germany, to founding the SDS, and now to the fight for the commons in Ann Arbor.

“What I Must Do I Will”


Kay Wade, a lifelong teacher, describes her experiences and efforts regarding equality in education, including a program ensuring school-age parents' continued education.

“An Ethical Imperative”


Peter Werbe, host of Nightcall and author of "Summer on Fire," describes his life experiences and how they have influenced his political ideology.

“The Story of an Unplanned Life”


Diane Kirkpatrick explains how her passions in life have led from one experience to another, similar to the unique weavings of an ornate rug.

“A Little Music Goes a Long Way”


Daniel Long uses his passion for music to inspire youth to pursue their dreams and interests.

2019: Perseverance

Norma Smith expresses the importance of family, activism, and making a difference in her community.

Elginne Johnson shares her story of growing up during WWII that includes ration stamps, air raid drills, and dependence on the false confidence of adults.

Frank Beaver pushes himself to create, and encourages others to do the same. He has produced many captivating films while raising a beautiful family.

Don Simons takes adversity and turns it into something productive and meaningful. When facing an obstacle, many people would rather give up than address it.

Steven Pepe shares his story of how experiences of injustice in the world around him shaped his career choices. 

Phyllis Hill speaks about racism and the rewards that come from educating yourself. She remembers her childhood growing up in Virginia and her adult life in Ann Arbor.

David Elsila uses his passion for writing to make advancements in social justice.

Curtis Howard describes his life through the lens of racism. He shares how racism and opportunities change as society evolves.

Gail Beaver dedicates her life to being an educator for people of all ages, serving as a lecturer, librarian, and teacher.

Carl Johnson discovers his First Nation ancestry, and in doing so, has a rude awakening to the cruelty that Natives face.