Fresno State celebrates after assistant professor co-produces Netflix series up for an Emmy

FRESNO, Calif (KSEE/KGPE) – Fresno State is celebrating after a Netflix series co-produced by one of their very own assistant professors was nominated for an Emmy.

Hanayo Oya, assistant professor in the Department of Media, Communications, and Journalism, co-produced the Netflix series “Turning Point: The Bomb and the Cold War.”

According to Netflix, the docu-series explores the Cold War and its aftermath. Oya was in charge of field production in Japan and securing interviews with survivors of the atomic bombings.

“One of the most profound moments during my time on this project was the opportunity to meet several Hibakusha, the survivors of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki,” she said. “These individuals, who were frequently forgotten in post-war Japan, carried the unspoken burden of their exposure to radiation. They struggled with health problems and societal disregard.”

In addition to bringing these “profound moments” to light, Oya says she hopes the project will inspire students.

“I am thrilled about the potential impact that the series may have in inspiring a passion for storytelling and documentary filmmaking among our students,” she said. “For those in the MCJ department, I hope this project serves as a catalyst to inspire them to push their boundaries and pursue endeavors at a global level.”

Oya began teaching at Fresno State in Fall 2023 after working for Syracuse University as an assistant professor. She also has experience as a TV reporter and director in Okinawa, where she produced several award-winning documentary programs.