Director, writer, producer, and author Brian Levant, known for his successful career in the TV and film industry, has been selected to receive the UNM Alumni Association Lobo Award. Levant, a UNM alumnus, will be honored for his outstanding personal service to the University and his career achievements that reflect positively on UNM.
Reflecting on his time at UNM, Levant humorously recalled his initial reasons for choosing the university, stating, “I came to UNM as a freshman in 1970, in part because Playboy magazine declared the school had ‘the best drugs and loosest women.’” Despite his unconventional start, Levant found his passion for filmmaking at UNM through the guidance of Professor Emeritus Ira Jaffe and the flexibility of the Bachelor of University Studies program.
Levant's career journey led him to become the showrunner for popular series like Happy Days and Mork & Mindy, as well as writing and directing successful feature films that have grossed over $2 billion. He also shared his knowledge and experience with film students at UNM through the creation of the Sitcom Boot Camp, a program aimed at helping students develop skills in comedy writing.
Upon receiving the Lobo Award, Levant expressed his gratitude, stating, “It’s very nice to be recognized a half-century after I graduated,” while also looking forward to returning to UNM with his wife Alison, who is also a Lobo alum. Jaymie Roybal, UNM Alumni Association Board president, commended Levant for his contributions, saying, “His outstanding personal service to the university exemplifies the spirit of dedication and excellence that we are proud to recognize within our alumni community.”
Levant continues to inspire students and alumni with his achievements and dedication to his craft, as he looks ahead to future projects and endeavors in the entertainment industry.