Lee and Susan Beall Endowed Fund in Filmmaking

Funds used to enhance the work of the School of Filmmaking at UNCSA, including the supporting senior student travel and career development work.

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Established by Lee and Susan Beall in 2023.

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Dr. Lee Beall, born in Washington, DC, and Susan MacKenzie Beall, born in Boston, met while students at American University. Lee earned undergraduate and doctoral degrees in music from American University, and master’s degrees from Appalachian State University and the University of Maryland. Susan obtained her undergraduate degree from American University and a Master’s in Art from Appalachian State.

Lee was an accomplished music teacher, serving at various institutions including Maryland Public Schools, Pembroke State University, Sacred Heart College, and Winston-Salem State University (WSSU). During his time at WSSU, he received the Excellence in Teaching Award. After retiring, he continued to teach in local schools and served as a communication officer for N.C. Retired School Personnel. Lee was also active in various local churches and musical groups.

Lee and Susan were passionate supporters of the arts supporting various institutions including Winston-Salem Symphony, UNC School of the Arts, the Little Theatre and the Theater Alliance. For 35 years, they devoted themselves to enhancing the lives of special needs children through music and dance, actively fostering significant inclusion of these children in the lives of both typical children and adults. They were particularly proud of their work with special needs students at Carter Vocational High School, where they organized musical performances featuring classic pop songs and musicals.

The couple also extended their efforts through a “musical exchange” program with Summit School, fostering bonds between special needs and typical students. Their dedication to promoting inclusion and acceptance of all students left a lasting impact.

Lee later volunteered at the Children’s Center, using his musical talents to bring joy to children, regardless of their physical abilities. During the Children’s Center Holiday Celebration, he directed performances of The Nutcracker, Christmas carols, and Hanukkah songs.

In addition to their passion for education and the arts, Lee and Susan were avid supporters of animal welfare. They volunteered at the Forsyth Humane Society and were instrumental in establishing the New Leash on Life Program, which benefited both state prison inmates and unwanted dogs.

The Bealls were known for their active and inclusive lifestyle, always finding time to connect with friends and support the community. They were generous, innovative, warm, and loving individuals who positively impacted everyone they met. It is this generous and accepting spirit, love for the arts and support of education that motivated them to establish the funds to support UNCSA.