“Being in the spotlight doesn’t always mean being in front of the camera,” said Dr. Truett Lee Vaigneur, Jr., reflecting on the inspiration behind his short documentary, Spotlight. The film screened earlier this month at MNN Studios to a full audience that included Amy Leigh Simonson (Ms. Wheelchair USA), Paralympian and designer Garrison Redd, and Michelle Hammer, founder of Schizophrenic.NYC.
The documentary highlights disabled artists and advocates whose work reflects values actively promoted at York College. Charmaine Townsell, Senior Director of Wellness and Resources, shared, “Spotlight reflects the heart of our work at CSD outside of ADA accommodations. We focus on building student confidence, visibility, and pride in ways that support learning, engagement, and success beyond college, as seen in Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez’s CUNY Beyond: A Roadmap for Student Success.”
Known across campus as Dr. T., Dr. Truett Lee Vaigneur, Jr. serves as the CUNY LEADS Specialist at York College and as an adjunct faculty member in the Behavioral Sciences Department. He also hosts the talk show Disabilities Redefined and is writing his third children’s book, All Wheels Sparkle on Stage.
Although the screening took place off campus, York College alumni, students, and staff were strongly represented. Graduates in attendance have transitioned into competitive careers across healthcare, education, dentistry, and business, reflecting the skills and self-advocacy developed during their time at York.
The film’s message arrives at a meaningful moment for the campus, as York College marks 60 years of the SEEK Program, underscoring a legacy of expanding opportunity. Reflecting that impact, Dr. T. shared, “Our alumni showed up in full force. At one time, we were motivating them. Now they are motivating us.”