The purpose of the Center is fourfold:

-- Expand opportunities for students to learn, and teachers to teach the skills and critical perspectives necessary for creating compelling documentaries.

-- Promote the work of established documentary filmmakers, such as Mike Kirk, director of "American Iliad," and encourage emerging practitioners in all documentary forms including video, photography and radio.

-- Produce innovative documentaries that interpret the social world, particularly the history and culture of the Carolina Lowcountry.

-- Reach out to the people of South Carolina by offering documentary workshops, seminars and film screenings.