Where did you grow up and how has your background influenced you today?
“I grew up in Washington, D.C. and the suburbs. It's such a vibrant and exciting place to grow up, and definitely gave me access to culture and the arts.”
Tell us about your current professional role and why it excites you.
“After GW, I worked at the Shakespeare Theatre in D.C., working on the campaign to build the new theater space Sidney Harman Hall.
“Then I moved to Edinburgh to do a Masters in Arts and Cultural Management at Queen Margaret University. I came to Edinburgh with the rights to produce the 48 Hour Film Project, the world's largest filmmaking competition, based in Washington, D.C.
“I have now produced the 48 Hour Film Project in Scotland for 15 amazing years, having created and screened over 1000 new Scottish shorts. Many of our filmmakers have gone on to huge professional success, including major TV and film deals and premieres at major festivals. We produce the event each year in Edinburgh and Glasgow, and next year we are adding Aberdeen and Inverness.”
What is a fun fact about you that you'd like to share?
“When I first arrived in Edinburgh I was looking for someone to co-produce the 48 Hour Film Project with me. Straight away I met Louise, the incredible woman who joined me in both business and life as my partner. We have been married for 10 years now and have two darling children who help out at all our events.”
What is your favorite only-at-GW moment?
“I produced a reading of Suzan-Lori Parks' The America Play on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial with the support of the US Parks Department. Only at GW!”
Was there a standout course, professor, or organization from your time as a student that inspired your career path?
“Maida Withers was an unforgettable and inspirational mentor who taught Performance Art, a course which opened my eyes to the possibilities of theater and art.”
What is a piece of advice you would offer to someone seeking to pursue your field of work?
“If you want to work in arts and culture, get as much experience as you can from smaller organizations to build your resume. Come work at the Edinburgh Fringe, or a festival near you, to get experience with a smaller company, which might give you experience to one day work at a larger company.”