An Uncommon Education – Celebrating 200 Years of the University of Michigan is a short-form documentary series to air on Detroit Public Television (DPTV) throughout 2017 as part of a multimedia effort of recognize 200 years of the University’s role as an educator and institution in the state, nation, and world. 

Written and produced by Oliver Thornton (assisted by Associate Producer Matthew Stinson, FTVM '10 and Carly Keyes, FTVM '16), this series is spread over ten broadcast and web vignettes; each vignette attempts to track the evolution of how the institution ignited the sparks necessary for world-changing minds, attitudes, and accomplishments from the 19th century through the new millennium.

Thus far, the following episodes have aired and are viewable via the link below.

Episode 1: "A True University"

Episode 2: "An Eye for Science"

Episode 3: "An Ear for Excellence"

Episode 4: "A Writer Worth Reading"

Please click here to view Episodes 1-4. 

An Uncommon Education: Celebrating 200 Years of the University of Michigan is made possible by a grant from the Stanley & Judith Frankel Family Foundation.