Chair of journalism department wins directing Emmy

By: Madeleine Dunn

Larry Foley, a professor and chair of the School of Journalism and Strategic Media, has received an Emmy for his documentary feature Indians, Outlaws, Marshals and the Hangin’ Judge. 

The film blends documentary and narrative to a story set in the 19th century. Although the story took place many years ago, Foley said the themes in the documentary still resonate today: gun violence, police brutality, racial strife and Native American rights.

“Blending a narrative with a documentary, there was a lot of directing that went into that,” Foley said. “And, you know, you don’t get tired of that.”

This is Foley’s first directing award from the Mid-America Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences. Foley has received eight past Emmys, but none for directing. 

“I’ve won Emmys in the past, and they’ve been for films and writing, but I’ve never been nominated for a directing Emmy and I’ve never won a directing Emmy,” Foley said. “So it’s a little special.”

Foley previously received the Silver Circle Award for his career as a teacher, filmmaker and journalist from the Mid-America chapter.

The film also features several key players from the U of A community, including interim Chancellor Charles Robinson and journalism instructor Hayot Tuychiev. 

Indians, Outlaws, Marshals and the Hangin’ Judge is available on DVD from the University of Arkansas Press.