2023 Judges
DEREK KOMPARE
Derek Kompare is an associate professor and Chair of the Division of Film and Media Arts at Southern Methodist University. He researches, writes, and teaches about the media industries, and particularly about how old media is distributed by new platforms.
SARA CARDONA
Sara Cardona is executive director of Teatro Dallas. Sara initiated the Mexican-American/Latin American Studies program at Richland College. She is also known for her work as an independent artist, and recently completed a temporary public art commission on the Katy Trail as part of The Nasher Public series.
AL JOHNSON
Al Johnson (they/them) serves as the Family and Community Services Director at Resource Center, the primary LGBTQIA+ agency of North Texas. In their role at the Center, Mx. Johnson provides strategic direction for all youth, family, adult, and older adult community services contributing to the collective healing and perseverance of the DFW queer community. In their academic career, Mx. Johnson contributes to scholastic research related to the pursuit of equity and inclusion within the public sector. Mx. Johnson is a military veteran and a member of Pi Alpha Alpha, a global honors society for those within the field of Public Administration.
MICHAEL CASTELLUCCI
Michael Castellucci says he’s been known to “”phone it in.”” His innovative work with his iPhone has netted him worldwide attention and acknowledgement as a pioneer in mobile journalism. Mike is a 28-time Emmy Award Winner, a multiple Edward R. Murrow recipient for “”Phoning It In”” programs – this includes a National Edward R Murrow Award for a program shot entirely on an IPhone. He also was Best of Festival Recipient, Faculty News Competition, Broadcast Educators Association and a TEGNA Innovative Storyteller Award winner. Mike is currently Artist-In-Residence at Michigan State University in the Journalism department.
MAUREEN WOMACK
Maureen Womack is the owner of Rabbit Hat Promotions, a boutique communications and special events firm that focuses on clients in creative industries. Her passion lies in assisting creatives grow their personal brands. From filmmakers, musicians, and artists to festivals, book launches and live music venues, these clients all rely on her creative strategies and support. Getting people up on stages and down red carpets is her company’s mission. When she is not promoting creatives, Womack is in her art studio at the Goldmark Cultural Center creating her own pieces.
CHRIS CHOMYN
Christopher Chomyn, ASC is an award winning cinematographer who has filmed in challenging locations around the globe. Since 1997 he has shared his extensive professional experience with his students at USC.
Chomyn is an active member of the American Society of Cinematographers. He sits on the National Executive Board [NEB] of the International Cinematographers Guild [ICG]. He received his M.F.A. from UCLA’s School of Theater, Film & Television and a B.A. in History from Fairfield University.
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