Filmmakers William A. Whiteford and Susan Hannah Hadary are a dynamic team noted for celebrating the human spirit through their works. They have dedicated themselves to documenting inspirational stories of "ordinary people," especially children living with exceptional life circumstances. Whiteford and Hadary received a 1999 Academy Award® in the category of Documentary Short Subject for KING GIMP, which was broadcast on HBO. Directed by Whiteford and co-produced by Hadary and Whiteford, KING GIMP tells the courageous story of young, physically challenged artist Dan Keplinger. Whiteford and Hadary began exploring their passion for subjects focusing on children with disabilities early in their careers. Whiteford attended the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC); he began working on small-budget projects that dealt with "people stories," which he labeled "spirit stories." He produced GRACE (1991) and produced, directed, cut & shot "Bong & Donnell" (1997, TV).  Best Achievement in Documentary Short Subjects 1999: KING GIMP - Producer (w. Susan Hannah Hadary) 1 nomination, 1 Award