Office Directory
David DeBorde
TITLE: | Associate Professor of Media Communication |
DEPARTMENT: | Department of Humanities |
EMAIL: | Send an Email |
PROFILE: | Dave DeBorde is an award-winning filmmaker, writer, director, and producer with a dynamic and multifaceted career in the entertainment industry. Known for his expertise in feature films and television, he has built a reputation for crafting compelling narratives across multiple genres. DeBorde was a producer on Old Fashioned, a romantic feature film that enjoyed a nationwide theatrical release on Valentine’s Day 2015 and received multiple awards following its festival run. As a director, he helmed the romantic comedy Marriage Material, starring Saturday Night Live alum Victoria Jackson and Maddy Curley (Stick It). His screenwriting credentials include Camp Hideout, a family film that premiered domestically in theaters in Fall 2023 through Roadside and secured a worldwide release via Sony. He was also commissioned to write and direct Merry Christmas…Oy Vey!, a festive New York City-based holiday film to be produced by 321 Films, a company he co-owns. Another of his original projects, Opening Night at Rico’s, a murder-mystery dark comedy set in 1978 Manhattan during the height of the disco era, is currently in development. Beyond filmmaking, DeBorde has been instrumental in film education and production, recently joining forces with Dr. Lewis Knight to build a groundbreaking Film program at Southern Wesleyan University. Together, they are working to establish an innovative curriculum that integrates hands-on experience, and they are actively planning the university’s first in-house feature film as a key part of the program. This initiative reflects DeBorde’s dedication to bridging academic instruction with real-world industry experience, equipping students with the skills necessary for success in the evolving film landscape. In addition to his academic contributions, DeBorde has an impressive track record in television, serving as the showrunner for Soccer Moms of Tampa Bay, a full-season reality TV show that received critical praise. He is also developing two television pilots slated for pitching in the 2025 season. A highly sought-after lecturer and panel moderator, DeBorde frequently speaks at premier film festivals such as Cannes, Sundance, SXSW, and Sunscreen Film Festival, sharing his insights on storytelling, production, and industry trends. Despite his busy career, his greatest passion remains his family—his beloved wife and four energetic children—who continue to inspire his creative journey. |