DGA Monthly

O C T O B E R 2 0 2 5 I 9 creating a partnership in service to the Guild with National Executive Director Russell Hollander celebrating in the press room with DGA Award-winner Christopher Nolan delivering a report at an annual membership meeting in Chicago has our backs and works tirelessly to protect our creative and economic rights so that we can focus on what we love — our craft. But there is still so much to do. It is no secret that our industry, which is no stranger to rapid change, is experiencing a period of massive transition. The industry contraction from the dual strikes has led to signifi cant unemployment for our members and all industry workers. AI presents both incredible opportunities and concerning unknowns. The rise of streaming and shifting business models have disrupted the rhythms on which many of us built stable careers, and production has become increasingly global and complex. The DGA has always been there for us through 90 years of change, and this period is no different. We do our research, and we come armed with facts and thoughtfulness, taking the whole industry into consideration. These battles will not be easy, but they are necessary. And they are never won by one individual — they are won through the solidarity of all of us. When we act collectively, when we work together, we can and do change the trajectory of our industry. Our superpower is our community. The work we've done together during my tenure over the past four years was forged in partnership with our incredible national board, our tireless committees and councils, our dedicated staff, and most of all with you — our members. Your trust and passion have inspired me every single day. I may have had the honor of standing at this podium, but it was your voices I carried. To my fellow Directors, you have reminded me again and again of the power of vision — of a single frame that can speak volumes of a moment between actors that can stir our hearts, of the relentless pursuit of truth on screen, never forgetting the weight and beauty of what we do. To the Assistant Directors, Unit Production Managers, Stage Managers, and Associate Directors — the unsung heroes behind every successful production — your discipline, intelligence, and grace under pressure, are the backbone of our industry. You make the impossible happen day in and day out, and I thank you. Now, as I pass the baton to the next leader of this incredible Guild, I do it with a heart full of optimism because I know the DGA will continue to lead with courage, with integrity, and with unwavering belief that every member deserves to be seen, heard, and valued. I may be stepping away from this role, but I will always be here. As we know, in this crazy business of ours, being a part of the traveling circus — I used to get so nostalgic at the end of a production but instead of saying goodbye, I now say "see you down the road," and I know that I will. So, I thank you for your support, your passion, your artistry, and for allowing me the privilege of serving you. With deep gratitude, with DGA BA/FLTTA Negotiations Committee Vice Chair Karen Gaviola and Chair Jon Avnet with National Vice President Laura Belsey at the 2024 DGA Honors Ceremony with National Vice President Laura Belsey at the 2024 DGA Honors Ceremony with DGA Presidents Thomas Schlamme, Martha Coolidge, Christopher Nolan and Paris Barclay representing the DGA at the 70th Quadrennial IATSE Convention at a DGA Awards breakfast event with Nominees and Steven Spielberg and Kenneth Branagh visiting members working in the world of news at NBC's studios in New York

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