Carl Bogner, teaching professor in Film, Video, Animation & New Genres, has been honored by the Universities of Wisconsin with the Dr. P.B. Poorman Award for Outstanding Achievement on Behalf of LGBTQ+ People.
The Dr. P.B. Poorman Award is given to people who have helped create a safer and more inclusive climate for LGBTQ+ people. The award, now in its 15th year, is named for Paula B. Poorman, a faculty member at UW-Whitewater dedicated to improving the lives of LGBTQ+ people.
Carl Bogner directed the LGBT+ Film/Video Festival for over 20 years, curating an array of representations of the LGBT+ communities to audiences and providing a platform for dialogue relating to understanding, making room for difference, acceptance, and inclusion. The festival ran for nearly 35 years on UWM’s campus and was revered as an institution in the community.
Peck School of the Arts colleagues were thrilled to hear of Bogner’s recognition, sharing that they believe the award is well-deserved after many years of dedication and service.
“Carl’s programming extended beyond the classroom and festival. His presence in the greater Milwaukee arts community and beyond is enormous, and he positively impacted thousands of lives,” said Jesse McLean, Chair of the Department of Film, Video, Animation & New Genres.
“A fierce advocate for justice, with a killer wit and extraordinary intelligence, Carl Bogner is one of the most beloved people I know, deservedly so. It is a highlight of my career to work alongside him,” McLean added.
“Carl Bogner’s teaching is extraordinary, and he leaves a lifelong impression on the fortunate students who shared a classroom with him. To be honest, I learn a ton from him—always,” said Steve Wetzel, Associate Professor.
Although the festival celebrated its final run in 2020, Bogner continues to make a positive impact on the LGBT+ community through the festival’s successor, the Queer Curatorial Fund. The QCF supports numerous screenings, travel to festivals and conferences, and student curatorial activities in recognition of artistic excellence by LGBT+ artists and allies.
Bogner was one of 13 people who were presented with the Dr. P.B. Poorman Award presented at a ceremony and reception in Madison on Nov. 9.