Celebrating a Legacy of Creativity, Scholarship and Mentorship in Film and Media Arts at Temple:
Honoring LeAnn Erickson and Warren Bass
After decades of inspiring students, advancing the art of filmmaking, and strengthening Temple University's School of Theater, Film and Media Arts, Professors LeAnn Erickson and Warren Bass are retiring, leaving behind an extraordinary legacy that will continue to influence generations of storytellers, artists and educators.
Together, Erickson and Bass helped shape Temple's Film and Media Arts program into one of the nation's most respected centers for creative and critical film education. Through their teaching, artistic work and commitment to student success, they have transformed countless lives.
LeAnn Erickson: Champion of Untold Stories
Throughout her distinguished career, Professor LeAnn Erickson has combined her teaching prowess with artistic innovation as part of her passion for uncovering overlooked histories. An award-winning independent filmmaker and media artist, Erickson's work has been screened internationally, appearing on public television, streaming platforms, and at prestigious film festivals around the world, earning numerous honors for documentary, experimental and animated filmmaking.
Among her most celebrated works is Top Secret Rosies: The Female Computers of WWII, a groundbreaking documentary that brought attention to the women mathematicians and programmers whose contributions helped shape modern computing. The film introduced audiences to a little-known chapter of American history and reflected Erickson's commitment to using media as a tool for education and social awareness. Her most recent documentary, I (heart) Jack LaLanne: A Cartoon Memoir has screened internationally.
In the classroom, Erickson encouraged students to find their own voices and to approach filmmaking with both artistic rigor and intellectual curiosity. Her mentorship helped aspiring filmmakers develop the confidence to tell meaningful stories while challenging conventions and exploring new creative possibilities. Along with other accolades, in 2015, Erickson’s efforts were acknowledged with the Outstanding Faculty Service Award, and in 2016 with the Champion of Entrepreneurship recognition
With an influence that extends far beyond the classroom, LeAnn has shown generations of students that filmmaking can illuminate hidden histories and spark important conversations.
Warren Bass: Inspiring New Filmmakers
Professor Warren Bass has spent his career helping students master both technical and artistic dimensions of filmmaking. An accomplished filmmaker, educator and former chair of Film and Media Arts, Bass brought a wealth of professional experience to Temple, drawing on a career that included directing, cinematography, documentary production and theater. His work often explores themes of social justice, community, and human experience, reflecting a lifelong commitment to socially engaged storytelling. Over the years, he has been broadcast on public television and screened internationally, earning more than 100 regional, national and international awards.
At Temple, Bass taught directing, cinematography, animation and advanced production courses while mentoring students through ambitious creative projects. Known for his high standards and deep investment in student growth, he challenged emerging filmmakers to think critically, take creative risks and develop a professional work ethic that would serve them throughout their careers.
His contributions to the university have been recognized through numerous honors, including Temple University's Great Teacher Award and Creative Achievement Award.
A Lasting Impact
The careers of Erickson and Bass have paralleled the growth of Temple's Film and Media Arts department, which has produced award-winning filmmakers, scholars and media professionals who continue to make an impact around the world and have contributed meaningfully to a department that has long been recognized for its excellence in creative education and professional preparation.
As we celebrate these remarkable careers, the university also celebrates the enduring values they embodied: creativity, curiosity, mentorship and a belief in the power of storytelling to deepen our understanding of the world.
The School of Theater, Film and Media Arts thanks Professors LeAnn Erickson and Warren Bass for their decades of service, leadership and inspiration. Their contributions have helped define the program's past and will continue to shape its future for years to come. Wishing you the best on your retirement!