Emmy-awarding actor Timothy Busfield will join Michigan State University as an artist-in-residence in the College of Communication Arts and Sciences.
In this new role, Busfield will co-teach courses that emphasize acting and fiction film production, provide insights based on his experience as a professional in theater and film, and bring noted industry professionals to campus for workshops.
He also will be the director of national content for WKAR, where he will develop original content for major networks, cable networks, movie studios and new media.
The appointment is effective June 15.
“I’m looking forward to sharing my experience with the students,” Busfield said. “I’ve learned much in my career, and I love helping those that also are eager to learn. My goal is to help their transitions into the major, and not so major, film and theater communities when they graduate.”
Another aspect of Busfield’s new role for MSU will incorporate promoting experiential learning opportunities for students interested in acting in fiction and nonfiction productions. This work will include the Theater2Film Project, dedicated to transforming student theater productions into film, and Busfield’s Performing Arts Warm Up, a weekend performing arts camp for kids.
“Tim brings a wealth of experience in acting, directing and moviemaking, which will add new energy to the Media Arts Collaborative, a new collaboration for creative work between the College of Communication Arts and Sciences and the College of Arts and Letters," said Prabu David, dean of the College of Communication Arts and Sciences. "We are also excited about collaborating with Tim to create compelling content for WKAR.”
A native of East Lansing, Busfield has been working in the theater and film industry for 37 years. He is most recognized for his work in television shows such as “Thirtysomething” and “The West Wing” and films such as “Field of Dreams.”
Most recently, Busfield sold seven pilots to major networks and has directed four others, including “The Fosters,” which is currently on the air.