DeKalb Entertainment Commission, DeKalb County School District, & Savannah College of Art & Design Surprise Students With A Trip To The 25TH Annual SCAD Savannah Film Festival

Purposeful Partnership Paves The Way For What Future Endeavors Can Look Like

DEKALB COUNTY, GEORGIA — DeKalb Entertainment Commission (DEC), a division of Decide DeKalb Development Authority, partnered with DeKalb County School District (DCSD), and the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) to recognize and award 22 aspiring film students enrolled in DeKalb County High Schools with a trip to the 25th Annual SCAD Savannah Film Festival during its closing weekend, October 28-30, 2022. DeKalb County educators, SCAD admissions, and DEC gathered at the DeKalb History Center on October 11th to surprise the students with the special news that they would be attending the renowned film festival.

The SCAD Savannah Film Festival is the largest university-run film festival in the U.S. The eight-day celebration of cinematic excellence honors both professional and student filmmakers and welcomes major industry luminaries, including award-winning directors, writers, and actors. The festival will screen innovative features, shorts, animations, and documentaries from around the world. Students will have the opportunity to view major studio releases and indie films prior to their theatrical debuts, to meet award-winning filmmakers at talks, panels, and workshops, and to make career-defining connections with industry insiders.

“This trip is another way for us to create strong and immersive educational experiences for our DeKalb County students”, said Shelbia Jackson, Director of the DeKalb Entertainment Commission. “It also allows us to remain focused on preparing a strong workforce that not just meets the needs of the growing entertainment industry but also offers quality, high-paying jobs for those who pursue careers in the entertainment field.”

The partnership between DEC, SCAD and DeKalb County Schools is part of an ongoing strategic effort to build intentional partnerships with a purpose. Attendance at the SCAD Savannah Film Festival will provide DeKalb County students an avenue for learning outside the classroom where they can participate in workshops, panels and screenings and give them invaluable exposure to the career opportunities that exist within the film industry.

“This is a unique experience that can directly impact the future course of our students in DeKalb County,” said Thomas McFerrin, CTAE Instructional Coordinator for DeKalb County School District. “DeKalb Entertainment Commission has been instrumental in providing our students with access to one- of-a-kind events and experiences and this trip to the SCAD Savannah Film Festival will raise our students’ awareness about career opportunities that they can pursue.” Students attending the festival are from DeKalb School of the Arts, Cedar Grove, Southwest DeKalb, Dunwoody, & Miller Grove high schools.

“We are thrilled to work with DeKalb Entertainment Commission on this exciting opportunity”, said Laura Strikwerda, Executive Director of Admission for SCAD. “The SCAD Savannah Film Festival provides a magical experience for all who attend and a preview of the year’s top films and performances! This collaboration will allow DeKalb County student an up-close and personal experience at one of the world’s most celebrated film festivals.”

As the DeKalb Entertainment Commission nears completion of a five-year strategic plan, more information about upcoming initiatives planned for 2023.