Our Team
Our Instructors
Full-Time Instructors
Part-Time Instructors
Stacey Owens
Assistant Vice Chancellor
Scott Votaw
C. Scott Votaw, Georgia Film Academy's New Executive Director, is an entertainment arts and academic industries global expert. With over 25 years of experience working for production companies including Saban, Fox, Lucasfilm Ltd. and others, Scott has a deep knowledge base of film production, 2D/3D animation, special FX, motion capture, and post-production. Through 10 years of education experience, he also holds expertise in current and trending production needs, training and educational circular creation and workforce development. Most recently, as an international consultant with CSV-Consulting, Scott worked for studio infrastructure providers, workforce development and emerging technology companies within the film and entertainment production sectors in the Asia-Pacific region. Prior to this, Scott supported efforts to grow the film and TV production industry in Georgia through maintaining a highly trained and industry-standard workforce by creating/advising some of the most successful educational programs globally. Votaw also served as vice president of production and development for Classic Entertainment for seven years and president of KidzVid Entertainment for six years, overseeing creation of programming for the U.S. and global markets.
Director of Academic Affairs
Wendy Quinn Guttin
Wendy Quinn Guttin is an award-winning Showrunner, Producer, Writer and Project Manager with 20 years of television production experience, including documentary, non-fiction, true crime, scripted drama and reality programming. She began her career as an assistant editor in Washington, D.C., before moving to Los Angeles where she was a network staff producer and freelance producer/writer of more than 50 hours of original content for E! Entertainment Television, WeTV, A&E, USA, Paramount, Bio and PBS. Wendy relocated to Atlanta in 2011 and worked as a senior producer, writer and showrunner on more than a dozen series for Investigation Discovery, Oxygen, Travel, Up and Cooking Channel, among others.
Wendy joined the Georgia Film Academy in 2016 as the Academic Program Manager and now serves as the Director of Academic Affairs. She is committed to GFA’s mission of training and building a sustainable workforce and talent pool for the film industry in Georgia.
Manager of Consortial Services
Cassandra Hollis
Actor. Educator. Filmmaker. Cassandra Hollis was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia and has managed to forge her career in the Entertainment industry with her career in Education.
Cassandra earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Georgia, where her studies were concentrated in Public Administration and Pre-Law. She earned a M.A. in Communication, majoring in Television Production, from Georgia State University. While matriculating in the MA program, Cassandra landed a position as Producer and On-Air Talent at a local TV station. She later formed a production company, subsequently directing, producing and writing 8 films, several of which garnered national and international recognition and best-in-festival awards. Cassandra was invited to teach a 3-Day filmmaking workshop in Barbados, WI, producing an acclaimed documentary about centenarians out of that experience.
While thriving as an independent filmmaker, Cassandra was an Adjunct Professor of Communication at a private university. After teaching over a decade, Cassandra landed a position at another university in an administrative role as Program Coordinator of Film and Digital Media.
Cassandra attended a One-Day Intensive Textual Analysis of August Wilson’s works at The Juilliard School in New York in 2017. In 2018, she was accepted into the competitive Yale Conservatory for Actors, earning an A. A working Actor, Cassandra has appeared in recurring roles on the TV One Network in the true-crime series, “ATL Homicide,” as well as on a true-crime series on the ID Channel. Cassandra has appeared in commercials for Walmart, Verizon, Cobb County Chamber of Commerce, and more, and has been cast as lead in several plays and independent films.
Cassandra joined the Georgia Film Academy as Manager of Consortial Services in the summer of 2021 and looks forward to continued opportunities to contribute to the success of the GFA.
Business Operations Professional
Blair Witte
Blair Witte has spent most of her life in Georgia and loves everything the south has to offer. Graduating from Georgia State University with a BBA in Finance, Blair found herself leaning away from that field. She worked for the Board of Regents in the Chancellors Office and Student Affairs while in college. She is now Business Operations Professional for the Georgia Film Academy.
Academics Coordinator
Emma Smith
Emma Smith is the Academic Coordinator for the Georgia Film Academy. She graduated from Georgia College with a BA in History and worked for six years in museum education before moving on to the University System. She enjoys working with students and is committed to helping them succeed.
Secondary Schools Coordinator
Cooper Fiscus-van Rossum
Cooper Fiscus-van Rossum serves as the Secondary Schools Coordinator for the Georgia Film Academy. Additionally, he is an Adjunct Professor, teaching classes in the Digital Entertainment and Esports pathway. Cooper earned his BA in Mass Communications with a focus on Copywriting and a minor in Digital Art from Georgia College. In 2019, while serving as the Marketing Coordinator for a private K-12 school in metro Atlanta, he was approached by school administrators to establish an esports team to compete in the newly announced, state-sanctioned varsity esports program. Ever since, Cooper has been actively involved in advancing scholastic and collegiate esports in Georgia. His greatest enthusiasm lies in expanding the existing reach of the GFA into secondary schools and discovering innovative ways to engage and support students, educators, and administrators across all creative disciplines (especially esports!).
Executive Assistant
Stephanie Oliver
Stephanie Oliver joined the Georgia Film Academy as Executive Assistant to GFA's new Executive Director, Scott Votaw, in March 2023. Stephanie has over 7 years of experience in Higher Education. Her most recent role was that of Executive Administrative Assistant to the Senior Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Morehouse School of Medicine. She also provided administrative support to all the teams under Institutional Advancement (fundraising), including: Alumni and Constituent Engagement, Development (Major Gifts Officers), the Assistant Vice President of the Comprehensive Campaign. She also provided transitional support to the President and CEO of Morehouse School of Medicine. She assisted with the advancement department’s success of raising over $250M in less than three years during COVID. She has a very successful track record with engaging with donors and partners and working across institutional departments to help leverage communication for institutional needs, specifically scholarships and endowments.
Prior to Stephanie’s HigherEd experience, she was a paralegal for 15 years in some prestigious firms in Atlanta, working in the following areas: medical malpractice, toxic torts, insurance defense, and social security disability. She has experience both on the plaintiff’s side and the defense.
Stephanie is a native of New York. She earned her bachelor’s degree in political science and history from the University at Albany (SUNY Albany). She acquired an American Bar Approved Paralegal Certificate from The National Center for Paralegal Training (Atlanta) and has a certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion in the Workplace from University of South Florida, Muma College of Business.
Asset & Facilities Supervisor
Megan O'Neill
Megan O’Neill is the newly appointed Asset & Facilities Supervisor for the Georgia Film Academy. She has served with the facilities team for the last two years which has provided her with an advanced, specialized knowledge of the inventory and film equipment required to best facilitate the needs of the students and faculty. She brings a unique blend of skills and expertise to her role with a Master's degree in Egyptology from Georgia State University and years of experience in a wide variety of leadership roles in academia and in the retail and service industries. She aims to continue her contribution to the success of the GFA and its overall positive impact on Georgia’s film industry workforce.
Inventory Assistant, Senior
Chelsey Willoughby
Chelsey Willoughby, originally from North Carolina, specialized in Communications and Broadcasting at NC State University. Since 2022, she has been committed to her role at the Georgia Film Academy, particularly within the facilities and inventory team, ensuring students and instructors are equipped for success. Chelsey is recognized for her diligent work ethic and dedication.
Inventory Assistant, Senior
Logan Welch
Logan Welch is the logistics team member on site at the OFS facility in Norcross. He has worked with GFA for almost 5 years and has a diverse work history in several different areas of the film industry. He is a 479 Union member who brings experiences from gripping on set, working as a service technician for Chapman Leonard Studio Equipment, Assisting Camera for NHK, and more.
Instructor
Brian Gunter
Born, raised and still live in Atlanta, GA. I entered the film business after graduating from college in 1979. I worked perhaps twenty five movies as a member of the set lighting department. Then about two years as the best boy of the set lighting department. Then, many, many years as a Gaffer, which is the department head. The Director of Photography and I devise an approach for the lighting of the film, always aware of our need to support the script.
I was the Gaffer on about forty five movies. Some are: "Sweet Home Alabama," "Remember the Titans," "Pink Panther 2," "Diabolique," "October Sky," "Get Low," "RoboCop 3," "The War," "The Mothman Prophecies," "The Strangers," etc.
The last four years or so I worked in the Camera department as a camera operator and Director of Photography. Some movies: "Anchorman 2," "The Blind Side," "Last Vegas," etc.
In 2016, I accepted a job with the Georgia Film Academy where I teach Motion Picture Set Lighting and Cinematography in conjunction with the Film Masters Program at the University of Georgia.
I was the Gaffer on about forty five movies. Some are: "Sweet Home Alabama," "Remember the Titans," "Pink Panther 2," "Diabolique," "October Sky," "Get Low," "RoboCop 3," "The War," "The Mothman Prophecies," "The Strangers," etc.
The last four years or so I worked in the Camera department as a camera operator and Director of Photography. Some movies: "Anchorman 2," "The Blind Side," "Last Vegas," etc.
In 2016, I accepted a job with the Georgia Film Academy where I teach Motion Picture Set Lighting and Cinematography in conjunction with the Film Masters Program at the University of Georgia.
Instructor
Bryan Krass
Bryan Krass grew up in Clarksville, Tennessee. He earned a BA in History from University of Evansville and an MFA in Film and Television Production from Savannah College of Art of Design. Following his schooling, Bryan moved to Los Angeles and worked as a grip, electric, best boy electric, and dolly grip in that market as well as Louisiana. He is most proud of his work as the gaffer of the TV game show “The Catch: Costa Rica” and documentary “Mayan Blue.” He has been an educator since 2011. In his spare time, Bryan enjoys studying history and playing mini-golf.
Interim Head of Post Production
Casey Richards
Casey Richards is an Emmy award-winning storyteller, marketer, public speaker, and educator.
With over 20 years of industry experience from Hollywood to Atlanta, his career spans roles across top-tier film studios, television networks, professional sports, advertising agencies, technology companies, streaming services, and higher education.
His work has been seen around the world with credits that include: Warner Bros. Discovery, NBCUniversal, Comcast, HBO Max, Food Network, HGTV, CNN, TNT, tbs, truTV, E!, MLB, NBA, NCAA, NASCAR, Avid, and Deutsch.
Casey joins the Georgia Film Academy serving as Post Production Instructor. His classroom trains students for successful careers in storytelling by fusing creative arts with technical skills using real industry experience.
With over 20 years of industry experience from Hollywood to Atlanta, his career spans roles across top-tier film studios, television networks, professional sports, advertising agencies, technology companies, streaming services, and higher education.
His work has been seen around the world with credits that include: Warner Bros. Discovery, NBCUniversal, Comcast, HBO Max, Food Network, HGTV, CNN, TNT, tbs, truTV, E!, MLB, NBA, NCAA, NASCAR, Avid, and Deutsch.
Casey joins the Georgia Film Academy serving as Post Production Instructor. His classroom trains students for successful careers in storytelling by fusing creative arts with technical skills using real industry experience.
Lead Instructor
Chuck E. Kerr
I’m Chuck, a seasoned industry professional with 24fps years of experience across film, television, and theme park industries. Originally from Miami and now based in Georgia, I serve full-time with the Georgia Film Academy, where I proudly lead as the Lead Instructor.
While I’ve worn many hats throughout my career — consultant, production designer, art director, scenic carpenter, prop master, set dresser, storyboard artist, gaffer, best boy, stagehand, craft services, and more — my greatest passion today is teaching. I love guiding the next generation of filmmakers, helping students discover their strengths, develop practical skills, and build confidence both on set and in the classroom. For me, education is not just about technique — it’s about mentorship, leadership, and preparing students for real-world success in this industry.
Working in this field has always been deeply personal to me. I thrive on collaboration with creative professionals who share a love for storytelling and craftsmanship. I’m also a proud member of I.A.T.S.E., IBEW, and PADI. I look forward to the opportunity to create, collaborate, and teach alongside you soon.
Instructor
James McKinney
I am from the Atlanta area and received a B.A. from Emory University, though I did attend the University of Southern California for film studies as well. I interned at Jayan Films, a leading commercial house at the time. I worked my way up as a grip and gaffer, eventually transitioning to director of photography. Initially shooting small commercials, then music videos and table tops. With the film tax incentives coming to Georgia, I had the opportunity to work on a number of films and episodics, as well as shoot some small feature films.
INSTRUCTOR
Julio Saldarriaga
Julio Saldarriaga is a two-time EMMY Award-winning filmmaker, director, editor, and Local 600 Digital Imaging Technician with a distinguished career across feature films, television, and live broadcast. He holds a degree in Advertising from the Pontifical Bolivian University in Medellín, Colombia, and a certificate in Producing and Directing Film and Television from UCLA. Julio’s credits include editing the acclaimed film Yellow (directed by Nick Cassavetes), working as editor and colorist on Bullet starring Danny Trejo, and serving as Dailies Colorist on The Menu (2022) and Emperor (2020). His work spans over 40 productions, including Paradise Highway, The Poison Rose, Southern Gospel, A Savannah Haunting, STARZ’s VIDA, and the Golden Globes’ live digital broadcasts. He also directed, co-wrote, and co-produced his original feature film The Shifting, showcasing his dedication to bold storytelling and independent filmmaking.
Currently, Julio leads the Savannah Hub of the Georgia Film Academy, where he mentors and trains the next generation of filmmakers, focusing on workforce-ready training that bridges education and direct entry into the film and television industry.
Currently, Julio leads the Savannah Hub of the Georgia Film Academy, where he mentors and trains the next generation of filmmakers, focusing on workforce-ready training that bridges education and direct entry into the film and television industry.
Instructor
Philip Bergquist
Philip Bergquist received a BA in Drama, and an MFA in Dramatic Media from the University of Georgia. He has designed and built sets for features, shorts, commercials and theatre. Notable credits include ESPN, EA Sports, Epic Games, Storyville Coffee, and Telly Award-winning commercials for Full Sail University. He has taught at the Academy of Art University and Full Sail University. He has achieved awards in Community Involvement, Risk Management, and an ESPN Game Ball. He currently teaches production design and set construction for undergraduate and graduate classes with the Georgia Film Academy.
Adjunct Instructor
Adrian Maruri
Adrian is an accomplished Sound Designer with 12 years of industry experience most notably at Pixar where he worked as a Recording Engineer and Sound Designer for half of his career. After honing his skills in California, he decided to move to Atlanta and open a Post Sound studio where he currently stays active in the industry working with clients lically and around the world.
Adjunct Instructor
Allison Hogue
Allison W. Hogue is an Adjunct Post-Production Training Instructor for the Georgia Film Academy. In her full-time position, she is a Digital Media Developer for The Salvation Army USA Southern Territory where she produces, shoots, and edits various media projects, including but not limited to short documentaries, promotional content, creative works, and training videos. She specializes in disaster response content, and also serves as lead photographer for major events and promotional materials.
Before returning to non-profit media development, Allison was a tenured Associate Professor at the University of North Georgia, where she specialized in teaching post-production and documentary production courses.
While at UNG, Allison wrote & produced a short film, Dead Winter, that was accepted into over twenty film festivals across the United States and Canada and won multiple awards, including Best Original Story and Best Horror Film at the 2019 April Independent Shorts Awards in Los Angeles. It was nominated for the 2019 Best Horror Short of the Year at the same festival.
She is an Avid Certified Instructor for both Level 1 (Specialist) and Level 2 (Professional) Media Composer certification programs.
Before returning to non-profit media development, Allison was a tenured Associate Professor at the University of North Georgia, where she specialized in teaching post-production and documentary production courses.
While at UNG, Allison wrote & produced a short film, Dead Winter, that was accepted into over twenty film festivals across the United States and Canada and won multiple awards, including Best Original Story and Best Horror Film at the 2019 April Independent Shorts Awards in Los Angeles. It was nominated for the 2019 Best Horror Short of the Year at the same festival.
She is an Avid Certified Instructor for both Level 1 (Specialist) and Level 2 (Professional) Media Composer certification programs.
ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR
Arma Benoit
Arma Benoit is a storyteller with over 25 years of experience creating award-winning projects ranging from iconic music videos to episodic television, commercials, feature films and an award-winning short.
Adjunct Instructor
William Bowen
William Bowen is a post‑production professional with more than 25 years of experience as an Editor in broadcast, documentary, and long‑form media. He currently serves as a Finishing Editor at CNN, where his work supports CNN Original Series, CNN Films, HLN, CNN en Español, CNN International, and several Documentary Units. His professional background encompasses editorial contributions to nationally distributed and award‑winning projects, including his role as one of the editors of Olympic Pride, American Prejudice. Bowen’s work on Versailles ’73: American Runway Revolution earned the African American Film Critics Association Award for Best Documentary in 2013, and he is also a Best App Addy Silver Award recipient for his video content contributions in 2014.
In addition to his industry career, Bowen is an Adjunct Instructor with the Georgia Film Academy, where he teaches Post‑Production and integrates professional practice with pedagogical methods that support student learning. His teaching emphasizes editorial craft, narrative structure, workflow literacy, and industry standards, preparing students for both academic and professional success in the film and media industries
In addition to his industry career, Bowen is an Adjunct Instructor with the Georgia Film Academy, where he teaches Post‑Production and integrates professional practice with pedagogical methods that support student learning. His teaching emphasizes editorial craft, narrative structure, workflow literacy, and industry standards, preparing students for both academic and professional success in the film and media industries
Adjunct Instructor
Chris Robinson
Chris Robinson has over 26 years of broadcast and documentary filmmaking experience. He began his broadcast media career with Grey Media (formally Raycom Media) in Columbus, Georgia. He was part of their onset production team and was responsible for graphic creation. Chris continued in broadcasting in news production mastering various broadcast technologies, working and supervising field production events while operating in a dual role as News
Photographer/Editor and Technical Broadcast Director. Chris was later promoted to News Production Manager at WTVM. He received a Bachelor of Science in Business and Master of Business Administration Degrees from the University of Phoenix.
Chris teaches the Introduction to Post Production in Film and Television course at the Georgia Film Academy.
Chris teaches the Introduction to Post Production in Film and Television course at the Georgia Film Academy.
Adjunct Instructor
Daniel Kelly
Screenwriter and filmmaker Dan A. R. Kelly earned his BFA from the University of North Carolina - School of the Arts for Film Directing in 2001 and his MFA from Hollins University for Screenwriting in 2014.
Currently, he serves as Associate Producer on the film Signing Tony Raymond, starring Academy Award-winner Mira Sorvino, which premiered at the 2025 Austin Film Festival before a nationwide theatrical release in 2026. His previous feature narrative film Susie's Hope (Writer/Producer) was broadcast nationally on Hallmark Channel/UPtv and received a Dove Family Award. He was also the Producer and a Cinematographer on the music documentary film Athens, GA Inside-Out 2.
A proud member of the Writers Guild of America, Dan penned the script El Medico for Cafe' Oscuro Films and The Liberator for Historia Pictures, both of which have been slated for production. He co-wrote the screenplay for Ocean Drive, which was optioned by Fred Roos Productions (The Godfather II, The Beguiled), and Dan’s original spec script Chattanooga was an Academy Nicholl Fellowship quarter-finalist and Big Break Contest finalist.
Before moving into features, Dan's short films earned national awards and recognition. His work screened at Cannes International Film Festival, Miami International Film Festival and on NBC/Universal's ChillerTV.
Dan was one of the founding Instructors for the Georgia Film Academy. He served as the Manager of Production Accounting for Storyboard Financial Services, overseeing more than two dozen film and television productions, including Queen of the Ring, Vampires of the Velvet Lounge, Send A Scare, Watchful Eye, Popular Theory and OMG Fashun. Dan’s expertise spans the creative, technical and business aspects of filmmaking.
Currently, he serves as Associate Producer on the film Signing Tony Raymond, starring Academy Award-winner Mira Sorvino, which premiered at the 2025 Austin Film Festival before a nationwide theatrical release in 2026. His previous feature narrative film Susie's Hope (Writer/Producer) was broadcast nationally on Hallmark Channel/UPtv and received a Dove Family Award. He was also the Producer and a Cinematographer on the music documentary film Athens, GA Inside-Out 2.
A proud member of the Writers Guild of America, Dan penned the script El Medico for Cafe' Oscuro Films and The Liberator for Historia Pictures, both of which have been slated for production. He co-wrote the screenplay for Ocean Drive, which was optioned by Fred Roos Productions (The Godfather II, The Beguiled), and Dan’s original spec script Chattanooga was an Academy Nicholl Fellowship quarter-finalist and Big Break Contest finalist.
Before moving into features, Dan's short films earned national awards and recognition. His work screened at Cannes International Film Festival, Miami International Film Festival and on NBC/Universal's ChillerTV.
Dan was one of the founding Instructors for the Georgia Film Academy. He served as the Manager of Production Accounting for Storyboard Financial Services, overseeing more than two dozen film and television productions, including Queen of the Ring, Vampires of the Velvet Lounge, Send A Scare, Watchful Eye, Popular Theory and OMG Fashun. Dan’s expertise spans the creative, technical and business aspects of filmmaking.
Adjunct Instructor
Eddie Evans
I grew up in Atlanta, near what is now the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library. After finishing High School, I attended Georgia State University for the next 4 years, bouncing around between being an English major and a Philosophy major. In my rambling, I tried out a photography course and was immediately hooked. Finally, I had found something that interested me enough to devote serious effort. I took 5 photography courses back to back. Although I did not graduate from Georgia State, it had shown me a path where I could possibly do something I enjoyed and make a living doing it.
I started calling every production house in the yellow pages every two weeks. After six months of pestering, a Mom & Pop company, Atlanta Film Equipment Rentals (AFER) took pity on me and gave me a job as a rental clerk. It was at AFER that I was fist introduced to professional film equipment and the technicians that use that equipment.
After two years, I went freelance as a movie technician, working as a Grip, Gaffer, Carpenter or Assistant Cameraman...whatever paid.
In 1979, I got work on a John Huston film as a Grip and that had considerable influence on my choice of crafts. In 1983 I Keyed my first film and have Keyed more than 80 films since then.
I have been working as an instructor for GFA since 2020. My last job as Key Grip was in 2022.
I started calling every production house in the yellow pages every two weeks. After six months of pestering, a Mom & Pop company, Atlanta Film Equipment Rentals (AFER) took pity on me and gave me a job as a rental clerk. It was at AFER that I was fist introduced to professional film equipment and the technicians that use that equipment.
After two years, I went freelance as a movie technician, working as a Grip, Gaffer, Carpenter or Assistant Cameraman...whatever paid.
In 1979, I got work on a John Huston film as a Grip and that had considerable influence on my choice of crafts. In 1983 I Keyed my first film and have Keyed more than 80 films since then.
I have been working as an instructor for GFA since 2020. My last job as Key Grip was in 2022.
Adjunct Instructor
Eric Oliver
Eric Oliver is a 30-year veteran of the film and television industry. A Stanford University graduate, Eric has spent the bulk of his career as a DGA-trained Assistant Director, with an occasional stint in the Art Department, working on every manner of production from blockbuster features and network episodics to small independent and commercial projects.
Throughout his career, Eric has maintained a deep commitment to mentorship, frequently lending his experience and expertise in advisory roles on student films and independent shorts to help emerging filmmakers "make their days."
Since 2019, he has served as an adjunct instructor for GFA1000: Intro to On-Set Production at the Georgia Film Academy between film gigs. By remaining active in the industry between terms, Eric ensures his students are trained not just for the sets of yesterday, but for the evolving, unpredictable landscape of tomorrow.
Throughout his career, Eric has maintained a deep commitment to mentorship, frequently lending his experience and expertise in advisory roles on student films and independent shorts to help emerging filmmakers "make their days."
Since 2019, he has served as an adjunct instructor for GFA1000: Intro to On-Set Production at the Georgia Film Academy between film gigs. By remaining active in the industry between terms, Eric ensures his students are trained not just for the sets of yesterday, but for the evolving, unpredictable landscape of tomorrow.
Adjunct Instructor
Geronimo Perez
Lighting Director (Gaffer), Certified Dive Master, Pool and Spa Operator. Gerónimo’s interest in the art of lighting began in sixth grade, at the age of 12, when he joined the stage crew at Colegio San Antonio’s school theater in Río Piedras, Puerto Rico, where he was born. In 1989, as he began his telecommunications and film studies at the University of The Sacred Hearth in Santurce (the leading communication program in Puerto Rico) he simultaneously began his professional career working with two renowned directors, scriptwriters and filmmakers, Luis Molina Casanova (documentaries and movies) and Francisco “Paco” López (stop motion classic animation,) this last, the owner of Taller de Animación Boricua animated cartoons studio. In 1991, he worked on his first movie, "La Guagua Aérea" with Professor Molina Casanova. In 1992, Gerónimo won the1rst place in the film category and Best Animation of the Year at the 2nd Puerto Rican Production & Media exhibition presented by APPACS (Puerto Rican Association of Academic Social Communication Programs) with his 2½ minutes, 16 mm, clay animated short, "Ay Jalisco No Te Rajes," that raised awareness on animal abuse. and since then, he’s been involved in the film and TV industry, specializing in the Electric and Lighting Department.
He has worked in more than 50 motion pictures, including well-known companies such as Universal Pictures, Warner Brothers, Miramax Films, Sony Pictures, United Artists and Disney Pictures. He’s also worked for cable television networks like Showtime, Lifetime, USA Network, Animal Planet, Disney Channel, E Entertainment and HBO and more. Geronimo has also worked in over 200 television commercials; a few well-known artists' music videos and a couple reality shows.
One highlight of Geronimo’s career is the fact that he is a NAUI (National Association of Underwater Instructors) Certified Dive Master that allows him to work underwater in movies and TV productions. He also has taken specialized training in rappelling that also allows him to work in cave settings. As part of his professional development, Gerónimo participated in the Basic, Advanced, Leadership Program and LP PHD 2 training courses offered by Momentum Transformational and Redesign, Inc. in 2001, where he became a leadership training facilitator acquiring people management skills, very helpful when leading crew members.
In July 2013, Gerónimo was hired as Director of Studio Operations and Maintenance at Pinewood’s Dominican Republic Studios during the last stage of its construction. During his 1-year contract, he was responsible for certifying that all aspects of the horizon water tank and sound stages construction followed the International Film Standards. In fact, he was certified as a Pool and Spa Operator by the NSPF (National Swimming Pool Foundation).
Gerónimo who is fully bilingual (English and Spanish) and has over 35 years of experience as Lighting Director (Gaffer) is an excellent resource for any production. He is a member of IATSE Local 479, where he has continued his education taking the following trainings: Safety Pass A (General Safety/IIPP), Safety Pass A2 (Environmental Safety/IIPP), Safety Pass HP1-HP2 (Harassment Prevention), OCHA 10 (General Film Industry Safety and Health), AWP/MEWP (Condor and Scissor Lift Training), Covid-19 General Prevention and Grip & Electric Covid-19 Compliance. Currently, he resides in Lawrenceville, GA and is available to work in the United States and the Caribbean as a freelancer. Geronimo is a Film Instructor with the Georgia Film Academy Teaching Introduction to Film & TV and Grip & Rigging since May 2023. He is also a certified Substitute Teacher in the Gwinnett County Public School System since September 2024.
He has worked in more than 50 motion pictures, including well-known companies such as Universal Pictures, Warner Brothers, Miramax Films, Sony Pictures, United Artists and Disney Pictures. He’s also worked for cable television networks like Showtime, Lifetime, USA Network, Animal Planet, Disney Channel, E Entertainment and HBO and more. Geronimo has also worked in over 200 television commercials; a few well-known artists' music videos and a couple reality shows.
One highlight of Geronimo’s career is the fact that he is a NAUI (National Association of Underwater Instructors) Certified Dive Master that allows him to work underwater in movies and TV productions. He also has taken specialized training in rappelling that also allows him to work in cave settings. As part of his professional development, Gerónimo participated in the Basic, Advanced, Leadership Program and LP PHD 2 training courses offered by Momentum Transformational and Redesign, Inc. in 2001, where he became a leadership training facilitator acquiring people management skills, very helpful when leading crew members.
In July 2013, Gerónimo was hired as Director of Studio Operations and Maintenance at Pinewood’s Dominican Republic Studios during the last stage of its construction. During his 1-year contract, he was responsible for certifying that all aspects of the horizon water tank and sound stages construction followed the International Film Standards. In fact, he was certified as a Pool and Spa Operator by the NSPF (National Swimming Pool Foundation).
Gerónimo who is fully bilingual (English and Spanish) and has over 35 years of experience as Lighting Director (Gaffer) is an excellent resource for any production. He is a member of IATSE Local 479, where he has continued his education taking the following trainings: Safety Pass A (General Safety/IIPP), Safety Pass A2 (Environmental Safety/IIPP), Safety Pass HP1-HP2 (Harassment Prevention), OCHA 10 (General Film Industry Safety and Health), AWP/MEWP (Condor and Scissor Lift Training), Covid-19 General Prevention and Grip & Electric Covid-19 Compliance. Currently, he resides in Lawrenceville, GA and is available to work in the United States and the Caribbean as a freelancer. Geronimo is a Film Instructor with the Georgia Film Academy Teaching Introduction to Film & TV and Grip & Rigging since May 2023. He is also a certified Substitute Teacher in the Gwinnett County Public School System since September 2024.
Adjunct Instructor
Gregory Irwin
Gregory Irwin recently retired as a veteran First Assistant Cameraman, who specialized in feature film production based out of Hollywood, California. His experience spanned over 40 years with numerous major studio, feature length motion pictures that are recognized world-wide. He is a member of the International Cinematographers Guild and The Society of Camera Operators, who honored him with a Lifetime Achievement Award for excellence behind the camera in 2016. He also serves on the Industry Advisory Board for the School of Cinematic Arts at California State University, Long Beach. In 2023, CSULB’s College of the Arts honored Greg with their prestigious Distinguished Alumnus Award for his outstanding service to the College of the Arts and for the mentoring of numerous film students over the years.
In 1989, Greg founded and still leads as President of Latitude 33 Motion Picture Services that provides motion picture camera technology and related services to the motion picture industry. Clients include Universal Pictures, Warner Bros., Paramount Pictures, Disney, Marvel, HBO, CBS, Sony as well as Panavision, Otto Nemenz International and Keslow Camera. L33 MPS also offers industry education and career advancement and sustainment through their FOCUS ON CAMERA program.
In 1989, Greg founded and still leads as President of Latitude 33 Motion Picture Services that provides motion picture camera technology and related services to the motion picture industry. Clients include Universal Pictures, Warner Bros., Paramount Pictures, Disney, Marvel, HBO, CBS, Sony as well as Panavision, Otto Nemenz International and Keslow Camera. L33 MPS also offers industry education and career advancement and sustainment through their FOCUS ON CAMERA program.
ADJUNCT INSTRUCTOR
Jerry Pece
Jerry Pece is an established DGA First Assistant Director in the Motion Picture Industry and an Atlanta native. He grew up attending Capitol View Elementary and Sylvan Hills High School. He attended the University of Georgia as a Political Science, Pre-Law major. He was a member of the freshman football team before settling in as an education major with the intention of coaching.
After college, he spent eight years touring the United States and Canada with several rock & roll bands as a drummer and road manager. Jerry entered the Atlanta film community in 1981 by way of Production Services-Atlanta as The Expendables manager. Soon, he became a freelancer as a third electric and lamp operator. He became a First Assistant Director in 1985. In 1990, he was invited to join the Directors Guild of America.
He has spent the last 43 years working on feature-length films, documentaries, short films, music videos, industrials, and commercials worldwide. He has worked with celebrities and actors and has choreographed extras from as few as two to a stadium of 50,000. Jerry teaches at the Georgia Film Academy and continues to work in the film industry.
Adjunct Instructor
Kerry Schnitzlein
Kerry graduated from the University of Georgia with a bachelors degree in Telecommunications Arts. After graduation she began as an intern at Georgia Public broadcasting. She was able to work on multiple different aspects of production and post-production throughout her time there. She discovered her love of editing and won an Emmy editing the documenter “Music Masters & Rhythm Kings.”
After freelancing around Atlanta for multiple years, editing for clients such at Coca-Cola, UPS, TNT, HGTV and many others, she worked for Turner Studios/WarnerMedia Studios for over 20 years. She worked on shows such as Cartoon Fridays and also was the lead editor for on-air promotions for shows such as Regular show and Adventure Time, winning multiple awards throughout her tenure there.
Recently she has been freelancing again will also teaching or Georgia Film Academy.
After freelancing around Atlanta for multiple years, editing for clients such at Coca-Cola, UPS, TNT, HGTV and many others, she worked for Turner Studios/WarnerMedia Studios for over 20 years. She worked on shows such as Cartoon Fridays and also was the lead editor for on-air promotions for shows such as Regular show and Adventure Time, winning multiple awards throughout her tenure there.
Recently she has been freelancing again will also teaching or Georgia Film Academy.
Adjunct Instructor
Kevin Jackson
Creative production professional with over 20 years of experience of professional programming and media production. A consistent high-performer who has provided leadership and oversight to numerous demanding weekly and feature shows largely focused on freelance, professional sports, client based, and weather content. An adept developer of innovative programming for clients and companies who delivers unsurpassed results from conceptualization to final product.
Recipient of five National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Sports Emmys; Outstanding Live Event Turnaround Category (2006, 2007, 2009, & 2011), Outstanding Social TV Experience (2017); Nominated eight times.
Recipient of five National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences Sports Emmys; Outstanding Live Event Turnaround Category (2006, 2007, 2009, & 2011), Outstanding Social TV Experience (2017); Nominated eight times.
Adjunct Instructor
Kevin Resnick
Kevin Resnick is an award-winning writer, director, actor and film instructor who served as an officer in the U.S. Air Force and flew airplanes as a C-130 Navigator. After moving on from the military, his innate flair for comedy allowed him to make a successful living as an actor in New York, where he starred in several acclaimed films on the national festival circuit, receiving Best Actor Nominations for his work on four different occasions, and winning once for Best Male Actor at the All the Laughs Film Festival.
As a writer/director, his films have screened in festivals worldwide, to include the Cannes Film Festival, and have won many awards, including multiple Best Film and Audience Choice Awards. His short films, On Becoming A Man and Doodles, have been distributed by Shorts International.
Kevin teaches Intro to Film & TV Production at the Georgia Film Academy.
As a writer/director, his films have screened in festivals worldwide, to include the Cannes Film Festival, and have won many awards, including multiple Best Film and Audience Choice Awards. His short films, On Becoming A Man and Doodles, have been distributed by Shorts International.
Kevin teaches Intro to Film & TV Production at the Georgia Film Academy.
Adjunct Instructor
Scott Bryant
Scott's varied career began in film production after college, in both on-set production and eventually, film exhibition before returning to grad school for an MBA. As a graduate of the DGA Training Program, he has worked as an AD on feature films, episodic, multi-camera and commercial projects for all the major studios. He also worked as an Associate at Goldman Sachs in the Investment Management Division in New York and Atlanta, and developed commercial real estate projects in the Atlanta metro area. He currently teaches part time in the GFA and leads the University System of Georgia's development efforts at USG Foundation.
Adjunct Instructor
Michael Bolger
Michael Bolger is an editor, filmmaker and content creator currently based in Atlanta, Georgia. Michael currently teaches post-production at Georgia Film Academy while also creating content through Boarding Pass Productions, a family business co-founded by him and his wife, Natasha.
Michael has worked in the industry in a variety of ways. He has edited for multiple companies like Full Lock Media and WITH Agency, cutting projects for clients like Marriott Bonvoy, Booking Dot Com, Corning, Kaiser Permanente and Piedmont Bank. He has also worked on set for multiple projects including A Different World (S1), Black Mafia Family (S4), The Cube (S1), Clean Hands, and multiple Reel Short productions. In regards to content creation, Michael has worked on various weddings, travel videos, and has worked with companies like the College Football Hall of Fame and Alumni Hall. Michael’s edited works have been viewed around the world through various film festivals, some even earning awards.
Outside of film, Michael enjoys traveling the world with his wife and singing and playing guitar. His goal is to continue to grow as a director, editor, musician and educator. He hopes to continue gaining experiences and sharing them with the next generation of filmmakers.
Michael has worked in the industry in a variety of ways. He has edited for multiple companies like Full Lock Media and WITH Agency, cutting projects for clients like Marriott Bonvoy, Booking Dot Com, Corning, Kaiser Permanente and Piedmont Bank. He has also worked on set for multiple projects including A Different World (S1), Black Mafia Family (S4), The Cube (S1), Clean Hands, and multiple Reel Short productions. In regards to content creation, Michael has worked on various weddings, travel videos, and has worked with companies like the College Football Hall of Fame and Alumni Hall. Michael’s edited works have been viewed around the world through various film festivals, some even earning awards.
Outside of film, Michael enjoys traveling the world with his wife and singing and playing guitar. His goal is to continue to grow as a director, editor, musician and educator. He hopes to continue gaining experiences and sharing them with the next generation of filmmakers.
Adjunct Instructor
Nicholas Ragazzo
Nick boasts 15 years as a professional IATSE 479 filmmaker with a body of work streaming across all sorts of screens. From his humble beginnings at a literary management firm in LA, he returned to his hometown of Wilmington, NC, to join the proverbial circus and began his career in the art department on the feature film "Arthur Newman" starring Colin Firth and Emily Blunt.
Fast-forwarding a bit, he has spent the last decade in Atlanta in woods with zombies, launching rockets into space, crafting futuristic devices, and solving the latest crime.
Always willing to lend a hand or a piece of learned knowledge, Nick continues to mentor the creatives that supply the magic to movie-making.
Fast-forwarding a bit, he has spent the last decade in Atlanta in woods with zombies, launching rockets into space, crafting futuristic devices, and solving the latest crime.
Always willing to lend a hand or a piece of learned knowledge, Nick continues to mentor the creatives that supply the magic to movie-making.
Adjunct Instructor
Nigel Thomas
Nigel Thomas is a GFA Instructor with over 30 years of comprehensive experience in the film industry. His journey through the industry has included working on many projects, including Shark Tank, Hell’s Kitchen, and BET’s SOURCE Awards. He is a member of I.A.T.S.E. Local 600 Guild of Cinematographers. During downtime, Nigel enjoys writing and creating his own projects. He also enjoys Biblical Studies, Martial Arts, and Unsolved Mysteries.
Adjunct Instructor
Paige Jarvis
Paige Jarvis is a Best Boy Grip with 25 years of film and television experience.
An Atlanta native, gifted photographer, and proud member of IATSE Local 479 for 19 years, Paige was elected to the Executive Board in January 2022 as the AFL-CIO, Labor Delegate. In May of 2022 she was asked to chair the 479 Pride Committee and in January of this year was named chair of the IATSE District 7 Pride Committee. She is also a member of the Local 479 Womens Committee as well as the Constitution Committee.
As one of the state’s few female grips, Paige excelled in all aspect of her role. Within a short time this industry professional became one of the first female Best Boy Grips in Georgia. She is also a small business owner, renting specialty grip gear to productions across the state.
An Atlanta native, gifted photographer, and proud member of IATSE Local 479 for 19 years, Paige was elected to the Executive Board in January 2022 as the AFL-CIO, Labor Delegate. In May of 2022 she was asked to chair the 479 Pride Committee and in January of this year was named chair of the IATSE District 7 Pride Committee. She is also a member of the Local 479 Womens Committee as well as the Constitution Committee.
As one of the state’s few female grips, Paige excelled in all aspect of her role. Within a short time this industry professional became one of the first female Best Boy Grips in Georgia. She is also a small business owner, renting specialty grip gear to productions across the state.
Adjunct Instructor
Sean Van Dorn
I am a Film and Television professional and educator with over 20 years of experience across multiple sectors of the mass media industry. My career spans print journalism, broadcast, live events, film and television production, and higher education—providing me with a well-rounded, adaptable skill set rooted in creative storytelling, technical execution, and leadership.
I hold an Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts from Queensborough Community College and an Associate of Arts degree in Mass Media Arts with a concentration in Radio, Television, and Film from Clark Atlanta University. My academic foundation, combined with extensive hands-on experience, allows me to bridge theory and practice both on set and in the classroom. Throughout my journey, I have worked in a wide range of roles including journalist, media specialist, camera operator, production assistant, on-set production assistant, stagehand, audio/video technician, production office intern, director, screenwriter, and currently, Film and Television Program Instructor. This cross-departmental experience has given me a comprehensive understanding of production workflows from concept through delivery.
I have had the opportunity to work with and for respected organizations such as Southeast Queens Press, The Amsterdam News, Rainforest Films, Inertia Films, American Idol, Grady Health System, The Learning Channel (TLC), People TV, Georgia Tech, Tech Rentals, Trell Films, KIC IT Films, and Southern Crescent Technical College. Each experience has strengthened my commitment to professionalism, collaboration, and high-quality content creation.
I remain dedicated to continuous growth by staying current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving production practices. I actively attend industry conventions, study technical publications, and continue hands-on production work through my company, KIC IT Films, LLC.
At my core, I am a storyteller driven by the power of media to entertain, educate, inform, and inspire. As a former competitive basketball player, I bring a unique perspective to sports storytelling—understanding how competition fuels narrative, emotion, and fan engagement. I have written sports-themed films, provided game coverage, and conducted athlete interviews, effectively merging my passions for sports and media. Today, I continue to integrate storytelling, sports, education, and technology—leveraging platforms such as social media and emerging tools like artificial intelligence—to expand creative possibilities while preparing the next generation of media professionals.
I hold an Associate of Arts degree in Liberal Arts from Queensborough Community College and an Associate of Arts degree in Mass Media Arts with a concentration in Radio, Television, and Film from Clark Atlanta University. My academic foundation, combined with extensive hands-on experience, allows me to bridge theory and practice both on set and in the classroom. Throughout my journey, I have worked in a wide range of roles including journalist, media specialist, camera operator, production assistant, on-set production assistant, stagehand, audio/video technician, production office intern, director, screenwriter, and currently, Film and Television Program Instructor. This cross-departmental experience has given me a comprehensive understanding of production workflows from concept through delivery.
I have had the opportunity to work with and for respected organizations such as Southeast Queens Press, The Amsterdam News, Rainforest Films, Inertia Films, American Idol, Grady Health System, The Learning Channel (TLC), People TV, Georgia Tech, Tech Rentals, Trell Films, KIC IT Films, and Southern Crescent Technical College. Each experience has strengthened my commitment to professionalism, collaboration, and high-quality content creation.
I remain dedicated to continuous growth by staying current with industry trends, emerging technologies, and evolving production practices. I actively attend industry conventions, study technical publications, and continue hands-on production work through my company, KIC IT Films, LLC.
At my core, I am a storyteller driven by the power of media to entertain, educate, inform, and inspire. As a former competitive basketball player, I bring a unique perspective to sports storytelling—understanding how competition fuels narrative, emotion, and fan engagement. I have written sports-themed films, provided game coverage, and conducted athlete interviews, effectively merging my passions for sports and media. Today, I continue to integrate storytelling, sports, education, and technology—leveraging platforms such as social media and emerging tools like artificial intelligence—to expand creative possibilities while preparing the next generation of media professionals.
Adjunct Instructor
Tamara Matthew
Tamara Matthew is a dynamic finance executive with over 20 years of experience bridging the worlds of high-stakes finance and award-winning creative production. Known for her sharp analytical acumen, Tamara has managed multimillion-dollar budgets, optimized global operations, and delivered executive-level financial strategy across the entertainment, media, and technology landscapes.
Her remarkable journey spans from Receptionist to Assistant Controller at It's Showtime at the Apollo—thanks to the opportunities provided by Chuck Sutton, his family, and teams—to leading Production Accounting roles for Discovery, USA Network, and Food Network. As Head of Production Finance at Notional, she helped shape the fiscal direction of Food Network hits, and later pioneered production finance transformation at Paramount.
Tamara is also deeply committed to cultivating the next generation of finance leaders. She has mentored and developed numerous production finance professionals, championing growth through hands-on training, strategic guidance, and a collaborative leadership style that empowers others to thrive.
A seasoned negotiator, legal strategist, and financial architect, Tamara brings a rare combination of legal training, deep financial expertise, and operational tenacity.
Her superpower? Translating creative ambition into financial reality—turning vision into viable, scalable ventures. Tamara brings clarity, rigor, and innovation to every challenge.
She is based in Atlanta and thrives at the intersection of business, technology, and storytelling.
Her remarkable journey spans from Receptionist to Assistant Controller at It's Showtime at the Apollo—thanks to the opportunities provided by Chuck Sutton, his family, and teams—to leading Production Accounting roles for Discovery, USA Network, and Food Network. As Head of Production Finance at Notional, she helped shape the fiscal direction of Food Network hits, and later pioneered production finance transformation at Paramount.
Tamara is also deeply committed to cultivating the next generation of finance leaders. She has mentored and developed numerous production finance professionals, championing growth through hands-on training, strategic guidance, and a collaborative leadership style that empowers others to thrive.
A seasoned negotiator, legal strategist, and financial architect, Tamara brings a rare combination of legal training, deep financial expertise, and operational tenacity.
Her superpower? Translating creative ambition into financial reality—turning vision into viable, scalable ventures. Tamara brings clarity, rigor, and innovation to every challenge.
She is based in Atlanta and thrives at the intersection of business, technology, and storytelling.
Adjunct Instructor
Terrence Williams
Terrence Williams is an experienced Gaffer, Key Grip, filmmaker, television producer, musician, disc jockey, film producer, photographer, and operations manager of Indiegrip.com LLC, as well as Owner/Operator of iAMstreaming.video LLC (January 2025–present).
He currently serves as President of South Eastern Filmmakers (2026–present) and was honored as Augusta, Georgia Partner of the Year in 2025 for his contributions to the local film community. Terrence is also a Georgia Film Academy instructor (2022, 2025, 2026), where he is dedicated to educating and mentoring the next generation of filmmakers.
Terrence is a 2024 Emmy Award winner for his creative lighting work on the Public Service Announcement “SNAP.” He has been actively involved in the film industry since 2008 and has built an impressive and diverse portfolio spanning feature films, documentaries, television productions, and music videos. Throughout his career, he has worked with some of the industry’s most respected professionals and organizations.
His extensive hands-on experience allows him to manage a wide variety of projects with precision and ease. Passionate about bringing creative visions to life, Terrence continually pushes the boundaries of what is possible in visual storytelling. Known for his reliability and high standards, he consistently delivers top-tier results for his clients.
A respected leader in the film industry, Terrence Williams remains committed to excellence, community development, and empowering others to achieve their dreams in film and media.
He currently serves as President of South Eastern Filmmakers (2026–present) and was honored as Augusta, Georgia Partner of the Year in 2025 for his contributions to the local film community. Terrence is also a Georgia Film Academy instructor (2022, 2025, 2026), where he is dedicated to educating and mentoring the next generation of filmmakers.
Terrence is a 2024 Emmy Award winner for his creative lighting work on the Public Service Announcement “SNAP.” He has been actively involved in the film industry since 2008 and has built an impressive and diverse portfolio spanning feature films, documentaries, television productions, and music videos. Throughout his career, he has worked with some of the industry’s most respected professionals and organizations.
His extensive hands-on experience allows him to manage a wide variety of projects with precision and ease. Passionate about bringing creative visions to life, Terrence continually pushes the boundaries of what is possible in visual storytelling. Known for his reliability and high standards, he consistently delivers top-tier results for his clients.
A respected leader in the film industry, Terrence Williams remains committed to excellence, community development, and empowering others to achieve their dreams in film and media.
Adjunct Instructor
Whitney Faigle
Whitney Faigle is an experienced Event Producer and Educator with more than two decades of expertise in live events, experiential marketing, and esports production. Throughout his career, he has produced large-scale activations and conferences for global brands including Red Bull, Samsung, BlackBerry, Coca-Cola, Kaiser Permanente, and Major League Soccer, managing events that have reached audiences of up to 90,000 attendees.
As a founder of StriKing Marketing, Whitney built a reputation for transforming brand concepts into immersive live experiences. His work later expanded into esports, where he helped produce major live events for titles such as Smite, Paladins, Overwatch, and Brawlhalla, bridging digital communities with in-person engagement.
In addition to his production work, Whitney serves as an Adjunct Instructor at the Georgia Film Academy, where he teaches Live Production, Streaming, and Esports. Passionate about workforce development, he mentors emerging professionals and prepares students to step directly into Georgia’s growing live production and entertainment industries.
As a founder of StriKing Marketing, Whitney built a reputation for transforming brand concepts into immersive live experiences. His work later expanded into esports, where he helped produce major live events for titles such as Smite, Paladins, Overwatch, and Brawlhalla, bridging digital communities with in-person engagement.
In addition to his production work, Whitney serves as an Adjunct Instructor at the Georgia Film Academy, where he teaches Live Production, Streaming, and Esports. Passionate about workforce development, he mentors emerging professionals and prepares students to step directly into Georgia’s growing live production and entertainment industries.
Adjunct Instructor
Zachary Stephens
Zachary Stephens is an Atlanta-based filmmaker with over a decade of experience in producing, directing and writing films. He also loves teaching and has a long history of working in education, teaching in the US as well as at universities abroad. He has been an educator for more than 15 years and is delighted to work at the intersection of his two passions, education and film. He currently teaches the Introduction to Film and Television Production Course.