Grad Holds Documentary Premiere on Campus on April 11

Millersville University graduate Allison Connelly '23, also known as "A.C. Brooke," will host a premiere of her documentary "Paper Birds" at 1:30 p.m., April 11, in McComsey Hall. This premiere is free of charge and open to the public. 

In observation of April as Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Connelly is working with Dr. Lowery Woodall from MU's communication department and Margo Thorwart from the Center of Health Education and Promotion to host this 30-minute premiere and share her story, hoping to educate students and community members on the complexity of trauma and memory. 

A post-screening panel discussion is planned afterward, along with a few local organizations tabling to connect attendees with relevant resources. For more information on "Paper Birds," visit https://projectpaperbirds.com/.

Connelly graduated from Millersville University with a major in media arts production and a minor in graphic communications technology. She began working on this project, which was originally designed to be a photo essay, as a student. While she was pitching the idea during her sophomore year, it was suggested by Dr. Changfu Chang, a professor in the Department of Communication and Theatre, that Connelly translate her project into a film. In Chang's documentary course, she turned her photo essay into a film. During her senior year, she cut a 15-minute version and premiered it in Wisconsin at the National Conference for Undergraduate Research, a trip funded by Millersville.

"'Paper Birds' was a community effort, and that was the most beautiful part," Connelly states. The support she received from peers, professors and various professionals motivated her. She credits several individuals for making this film possible, including Drs. Chang, Stacey Irwin and Woodall from the Department of Communication and Theater, and Dr. Rene Muñoz, former director of sponsored programs and research administration.

Connelly hopes her film makes those who watch it reflect on what it means to 'believe survivors' and the impact of having or not having that kind of support. "In a world that feels increasingly polarized, the ability to step back and conjure some semblance of objectivity has been an important part of this process," Connelly says. "Understanding doesn't automatically fix everything, but it's often the place to start."

Connelly believes this documentary is a big part of her recovery; however, she realizes that also includes facing her fears in therapy and looking inward, all while striving to heal. "It's an odyssey I'm very much still on, but I'm light years from where I started," she says.

She would like to thank MU's Counseling Center and Dr. Lisa House, who was her on campus counselor during her senior year. "These services were a huge asset, and students should utilize them," says Connelly. "I believe the world needs more hope, and one of my goals is that "Paper Birds" provides that to some who view it."