deadCenter University Teen Workshop at Rose State College

The deadCenter University Youth Camp at Oklahoma City Community College took place June 2–6, 2025 and offered an exclusive learning opportunity for students from across the state. Led by Sean Lynch, Professor of Digital Cinema Production at OCCC’s nationally ranked film school, along with guest professionals from the film industry, high school students gained hands-on experience as part of a working film crew. Over five days, students took on various crew roles and collaborated to complete a narrative short film. The finished project was showcased at the 25th Annual deadCenter Film Festival to an audience of family, friends, and festival pass-holders.

Sponsored by

Eleanor

Eleanor is a dedicated and passionate young dancer at the height of her training. When unexpected challenges threaten her future, she's forced to reexamine her identity beyond the world of dance. As she navigates personal struggles, shifting priorities, and complex relationships, Eleanor begins a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and transformation.

TEEN WORKSHOP MENTORS

ERIKA OBAR

STEVE JONES

JOHN MARSHALL

JAYDEN RIDDLE

LOGAN WALCHER

VALERIE PARKER

HANNAH MCELFRESH

TRISTEN MOLES

BILLY BAXTER

TEEN WORKSHOP @ ROSE STATE

Marcus Mallard is a Professor of English and Coordinator of the Film Studies and Digital Media program at Rose State College. With a background in fine arts, English, and film studies, he brings a creative and academic depth to his teaching. Since joining Rose State full-time in 2021, he has led the launch of the FSDM program and its annual student awards, highlighting excellence in filmmaking. His students have gained national recognition, including honors at the Experimental Forum Film Festival. Mallard is also a published editor and essayist on film and animation studies, committed to helping students tell meaningful, diverse stories.

MARCUS MALLARD

Victor Caballero is an award-winning producer and director of independent films. His latest film, “Seeker,” has won Best Thriller and Best Directing awards at regional film festivals.

One of Victor’s passions is teaching students the art of cinema. Since 2017, he has provided hands-on filmmaking experience through the OKCine Latino Film Institute, where each student has the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and tools needed to become filmmakers. Since taking the lead in deadCenter’s education programming in August 2023, Victor has brought dC’s Statewide Education Tour to more than 14,000 students, giving them an introduction to filmmaking and a workforce development experience tol help them gauge their interest in a film career.

Jóvenes Latinos Emprendedores Profesionales recently named Victor to its list of 20 Under 40 young Latino Entrepreneurs and Professionals, and he will receive the Bare Bones International Film Festival’s Trailblazer Award in early May. 

Director of dCU