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.