Jax State Students Lead Production of New Documentary Premiering on Alabama Public Television
Longleaf Studios project highlights hands-on learning and regional impact
Jacksonville, AL (04/13/2026) — Students at Jacksonville State University are taking their work from the classroom to a statewide audience.
The latest documentary produced through Jax State's Longleaf Studios will premiere on April 23 on Alabama Public Television (APT), providing students with hands-on experience while showcasing key outdoor destinations across Calhoun County and the rest of the state.
The project highlights locations including the Chief Ladiga Trail, Coldwater Mountain Bike Trail, and the Pinhoti Trail-bringing regional visibility while serving as a professional production experience for the students involved.
"This project represents exactly what we want for our students-real experience, real responsibility, and work that reaches a broad audience," said Dr. Seth Johnson, associate dean of the College of Arts, Humanities, and Sciences and director of Longleaf Studios. "It is an incredible experiential learning opportunity that allows students to apply what they learn in the classroom to a professional production that will be seen across the state."
Four Jax State students played significant roles in the production: Ashley Hunt, Lex Phillips, Khaled Mahmud, and Akira Crouch-Scott. Their involvement reflects the university's emphasis on preparing students for careers through applied learning opportunities that extend beyond the classroom.
The partnership with Alabama Public Television expands the reach of that work, connecting student-produced content with audiences across the state while highlighting the university's role in supporting regional storytelling and economic visibility.
View the official trailer HERE. Additional information is available at aptv.org.
About Jacksonville State University: Founded in 1883 as a state teachers' college, Jacksonville State University has grown from humble beginnings into the Alabama regional university with the highest percentage of accredited programs. Located in the Appalachian foothills midway between Birmingham and Atlanta, Jax State offers more than 150 courses of study, including over 40 online programs, at the undergraduate and graduate levels. To learn more, visit www.jsu.edu, call 1-800-231-JAX1, or e-mail jaxfacts@jsu.edu.
Jacksonville State University
Josh Underwood, 256-782-8156, underwood@jsu.eduShare this Story
Recent News
- Jax State Celebrates Grand Opening of Randy Owen Center with Star-Studded Tribute Concert
- Updated Media Access Information for ROC Ribbon Cutting
- Jax State Announces 3+3 Partnership with Cumberland School of Law, Creating Accelerated Pathway to Law Degree
- MEDIA INVITE: Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts Ribbon Cutting - Tuesday, May 26, 2026 at 3 p.m.
- Jax State launches Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship, creating new pathway for students to build and lead businesses
- Jax State Celebrates Grand Opening of Challenger Learning Center of Northeast Alabama
- Jax State Awards Honorary Doctorate to Country Music Star Riley Green at Spring Commencement
- Jax State Names Department of Teacher Education, Establishes Endowed Scholarship Through Gift From Dr. Beverly Ann Lorren
- Meet Daphne: The K-9 Officer Working Behind the Scenes to Keep Jax State Safe
- Tickets Still Available for ROC Grand Opening Concert Featuring Randy Owen