GREENVILLE, Pa.-- George Pelecanos, author, producer, and screenwriter, spoke to the Thiel College community Tuesday as part of the visit from Thiel College alumnus and benefactor James Pedas ’50 H’89.
Renowned for his work on the critically acclaimed TV series “The Wire,” Pelecanos has also made significant contributions as a writer and producer for other film and television projects. His novels, which frequently explore the intersecting themes of crime, justice, and redemption, have garnered numerous accolades and solidified his reputation as a powerful storyteller.
At this special engagement, Pelecanos discussed his multifaceted career, focusing on his experiences as both a writer and producer. The Q&A session was facilitated by Thiel College Assistant Professor of Communication and Department Chair Matthew Humphrey. Following his discussion with Humphrey, Pelecanos answered questions from the community and met with students.
Pelecanos discussed the creative process, his dedication to writing and tips for students interested in working in film and screenwriting. His visit was as part of a trip to Thiel by Pedas. Pedas was the lead donor for the $6.8 million James Pedas Communication Center. The building is a collaborative learning community for students to engage in film, TV, radio, news, podcast production and other multimedia-rich experiences. The building includes sophisticated labs and studios, dynamic classrooms and learning spaces, and the Office of Admission. It is Thiel’s first Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design-certified building.
About the Pedas family
Pedas, and his brother, Ted, have a long history in the entertainment industry. In the 1950s, he and Ted established Colt 45 Records, a recording company that launched the musical career of Don Covay (who wrote “Chain of Fools” and “Mercy Mercy” among others). The Pedas brothers later partnered to acquire several drive-in movie theatres. Later, with another partner, they bought a film distribution franchise and never looked back. They have been involved in numerous film ventures over the years including owning the Circuit/Showcase theatre circuit; owning a small part of Cinema 5 Ltd.; forming their own distribution company, Circle Releasing Corp., and forming their own production company, Circle Films, which was one of the foremost backers of 1990s American independent cinema. Among their most noted productions are the Coen brothers’ debut and sophomore films, “Blood Simple” (1984) and “Raising Arizona” (1987). They also formed Circle Management Company to oversee their investments in real estate and commercial development and Circle Parking to operate parking facilities in the Washington, D.C. area.
The Farrell, Pa., native earned a Bachelor of Science in economics from Thiel College and received the Distinguished Alumnus Award for Professional Accomplishment in 1980. He was awarded an honorary doctorate from Thiel and was named trustee emeritus to the Board of Trustees. He has received many awards for his work including Washingtonian of the Year (1973) and the American University’s Award for Contribution to Film Culture (1985). James Pedas and his wife, Wanda, are supporters of many philanthropic endeavors, including establishing an Intellectual Property Chair at George Washington Law School.
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