Comic book veteran to talk superheroes

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Marvel editor and comic book publisher Bill Rosemann will speak about “Superheroes On and Off the Page” at 7 p.m., Tuesday, April 16, in the Student Union Movie Theater as part of the Center for Leadership Development’s Distinguished Speakers Forum.

Rosemann, who entered the comic book industry in the footsteps of legends Stan Lee and Mark Gruenwald, is responsible for creating several iconic superhero stories and characters that resonate with audiences of all ages. In his 20-plus year career, Rosemann has been a journalist, copywriter, script writer, marketing director, project manager and editor, which he credits providing him a better understanding of all sides of the comic book world.

From Marvel to CrossGen to DC Comics and back to House of Ideas, Rosemann has worked alongside a number of the industry's top creators. He edited titles featuring some of Marvel's most famous characters -- including Captain America, Iron Man, Thor and the Avengers -- as well as cult favorites such as Black Widow, Hawkeye, Nova and Guardians of the Galaxy. He now oversees Marvel Custom Solutions publications, as well as monthly comics including Avengers Academy and New Mutants.

According to Rosemann, the comics he creates mirror archetypes of society: the superheroes within each person and those who aspire to have extraordinary abilities. In his free, public April 16 presentation, Rosemann will discuss the behind-the-scenes history of Marvel, how comic book creators use their characters to comment on modern life, how to be the hero of one’s own story and more.

The Distinguished Speakers Forum, sponsored by the Center for Leadership Development, is designed to bring fresh, engaging and diverse speakers to the UNC Charlotte community.