Baby Boomers have been in the spotlight since their youth, earning the title of “a new kind of generation” from Time magazine in 1966.

Born during the post–World War II population surge between 1946 and 1964, this generation transformed societal attitudes on topics ranging from sex and race to politics.

In The Boomer List, award-winning photographer and filmmaker Timothy Greenfield-Sanders presents 19 compelling portraits of trailblazing Baby Boomers, each representing a year of the baby boom. These portraits celebrate the depth, diversity, and contributions of a generation that has profoundly shaped our society and culture.

Greenfield-Sanders conceived The Boomer List after the youngest Baby Boomers turned 50, selecting individuals whose influence and accomplishments have defined and enriched their generation. Through striking imagery and revealing interviews, the project offers an intimate exploration of one of history’s most influential demographics.

Programming at the WFMA

The Generations Explored: From Boomers to Generation Alpha
September 24, 6:00-7:30 PM 

What defines a generation? While generations are categorized by similar historical and cultural experiences during their formative years, they may still share beliefs and values that transcend a single generation. Our panelists-- Boomer, Gen X, Millennial, Zoomer and Generation Alpha—will share the strengths and stereotypes of their generation and move past the myths in this intergenerational discussion. Moderated by Dr. Beverly Stiles (Professor and Chair of Sociology, Prothro-Yeager College of Humanities and Social Sciences). 

Star Wars at Forty-Eight: The Enduring Appeal of a Long Time Ago in a Galaxy Far Far Away
October 16, 6:00-7:30 PM 

In 1977, the world was first introduced to Star Wars: A New Hope, a movie made by Baby Boomers for Gen X kids. In 1999 Star Wars: Phantom Menace introduced Millennial kids to the battle between the Jedi and the Sith. Finally (until now), in 2015 Gen X, who had grown up with Star Wars made the Force Awakens for Gen Z. Few franchises unite the generations more so than Star Wars. Join us at the WFMA on October 16 for an inter-generational discussion about the enduring legacy from a long time ago in a galaxy far far away. Moderated by Dr. Brandon Blakeslee (Assistant Professor of History, Prothro-Yeager College of Humanities and Social Sciences) 

Connecting Across Generations: Building a More Comprehensive Healthcare Environment
November 20— 6:00-7:30 PM 

The Gunn College of Health Sciences and Human Services invites you to a panel discussion exploring the evolving landscape of healthcare through a multigenerational lens.  As healthcare professionals, we must seek to actively communicate, collaborate, and connect across generations. This panel will offer valuable insights and practical strategies for improving patient-centered care, fostering intergenerational teamwork, and supporting a changing healthcare environment. 

Closing reception and viewing of “The Mustangs List” photographs 
January 21-- 5-6:30 PM

The WFMA will close its “The Boomer List” with a closing reception and a one-time viewing of the accompanying exhibition “The Mustangs List,” a student-photographed and curated exhibition of MSU-affiliated individuals. Members of “The Mustangs List” were nominated and voted on by the MSU campus, photographed by students in the Fain College of Fine Arts. Together the members of “The Mustangs List” represent different generations and their contributions to campus.