Date: May 15, 2007
Contact: Eric Matanyi
Governors State University
Phone: (708) 534-4044
Fax: (708) 534-8399
Email: e-matanyi@govst.edu
For Immediate Release
University Park, IL, May 15, 2007 – Governors State University went Hollywood when a film crew from Home and Garden Television (HGTV) recently visited the south suburban campus.
They were in town to film a segment for an upcoming special entitled What’s With That Crazy College Room? The show is slated to feature a segment on GSU psychology student Rita Lee, of Orland Park, whose bedroom resembles an ancient temple reminiscent of those featured in the Indiana Jones films.
“I answered an ad on craigslist,” said Lee, explaining how she found out about the show. “The ad was very specific. It sounded like they were looking for rooms just like mine, so I applied.
“The room is a work in progress and I had to put some extra hours into getting it ready for TV. I am always making changes to it and so I don’t think I’ll ever consider it completely finished.”
Room highlights include a dense jungle entrance with hanging vines, wall-sized murals and painted accents, foliage protruding through the walls, and fabricated stone and architectural pieces.
The HGTV camera crew and producer were accompanied by energetic host George Gray. While waiting for the crew to set up, Gray, who donned a Governors State t-shirt and smoked a cigar, cheerfully chatted with university staff and students and took in the sights of the 760 acre campus.
Gray, who is the current host of HGTV’s What’s With That House?, has recently appeared as host of NBC’s Weakest Link game show, and also served as co-host of the 2003 the Jerry Lewis Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) telethon.
The HGTV staff spent about three hours filming various scenes of Lee and Gray around campus and then moved onto Lee’s parent’s house to film segments with her family and of her unique room.
“This was such a great experience. I was so impressed with George Gray and the entire production team. They were the perfect blend of personable and professional.” Lee said. “It’ll be a blast to see how it all turns out when I have a viewing party with my friends.”
Lee, who will graduate from Governors State in June, plans to work in residential treatment in Chicago, helping to reintegrate citizens with mental illness back into the community. She also plans to return to school for a master’s degree.
The show is scheduled to air this fall.
