|
The Nashville Filmmakers Guild began in early 2013 as a coffee shop meetup and online Facebook group. In July, 2016 NFG grew into an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation focused on filmmaker skills development, networking, and education. As the organization grew, so did its commitment to building community and training the next generation of filmmakers. NFG has hosted world class speakers like Roger Deakins ASC, Lawrence Sher ASC, and Jay Holben ASC. NFG is composed of 6 operating committees serving over 200 NFG members and an online community of more than 6,000 filmmakers statewide.
|
THE TEAM
Passionate film professionals who volunteer, organize, and advocate for TN's filmmaking future.
|
SARAH HAASExecutive Director
Sarah is an independent producer in documentary and feature scripted film. Her background includes two years working with the Sundance Institute on their yearly Filmmaker Labs which led to interest in filmmaker development. She enjoys supporting filmmakers in their continuing education through organizing and planning.
|
|
Kelley BellAdministrative Coordinator
Kelley is a writer, filmmaker, and educator here in Nashville. In addition to writing and directing narrative short films, she writes grants for nonprofits, teaches creative writing camps for youth, and has created numerous interactive, educational concerts at the Nashville Symphony for over a decade.
|
|
MAX A. BUTLERBoard Member
A Nashville native, Max moved to New York to begin his career in 2004 after graduating from Vanderbilt University. In New York, he gained experience on the films of directors Martin Scorsese, Jonathan Demme, and Neil Jordan, among others. Since returning home to Nashville in 2008, Max has expanded his experience by producing commercials, concert specials, and music videos; both as a freelancer and through his production company, Stories We Can Tell. He has continued his work in film, as well, serving as Executive Producer, Line Producer, or UPM on seven projects since 2013.
|
|
NIC DUGGERBoard Member
Nic Dugger is a Jackson, Tennessee native and MTSU grad who founded TNDV in October of 2004. Today, Nic has received 50 Emmy nominations and 14 Emmy Awards for live production, technical achievement, and directing. Nic is a member of the Middle Tennessee State University Mass Communication Wall of Fame, and he was named Outstanding Alumnus of the University in 2018, the schools highest honor. Currently Nic serves as the President on the Board of Directors for the Mid-South Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.
|
|
SCOTT SIMMONSBoard Member
Scott has worked both as a freelancer and on staff at post-houses in Nashville for well over a decade. As a managing editor for Pro Video Coalition Scott brings his knowledge and networking capabilities to help propel NFG forward.
|
|
TANNER GRANDSTAFFAdvisory Board Member
Tanner is an award-winning filmmaker and founder of the production company Aberration. On set, he is a Director of Photography for music videos, commercials, and short films. His passion for community and networking has lead him to join NFG and develop the Artist Spotlight series.
|
|
HAZEL JOYNER-SMITHAdvisory Board Member
Hazel Joyner-Smith is an entrepreneur, educator, grandmother, and cultural activist. Whether serving as the program director of the Race Relations Institute at Fisk University, a Talent Coach, Civil Rights Worker, or international Negotiator for human rights, Hazel always campaigned for equity of access and inclusion. As Founder/CEO of the International Black Film Festival of Nashville, Hazel continues to draw the world in with her contagiously uplifting spirit as she takes the festival to the next level!
|
|
NATHAN THOMPSONAdvisory Board Member
Nathan has volunteered for NFG since 2015. His passion for community, education and equality motivate his efforts to further develop the organization. Nathan is a 19 time Emmy Award winning cinematographer and is the owner of rental house Contrast Cine.
|
|
MARK JACKSONWorkshops & Events Volunteer
Mark D. Jackson is an award winning Producer, Director and Editor with other 20 years experience in film and TV. He has freelanced for networks such as MTV, BET, CMT, TBN, and ESPN. In 1996, Mark made his feature film debut as one of Spike Lee’s assistants on “Get On the Bus.” Currently, he is the CEO of Above The Mark Productions.
|
|
JARAD CLEMENTGraphic Designer Volunteer
Jarad Clement is a New Orleans native that used his musical upbringing to find his way to Nashville in 2007. Now he is the founder of Extra, a production company focused on brand content, live performance, animation and graphic design. As an avid outdoorsman, Jarad uses his free time to explore the beautiful state of Tennessee with his wife Katie and two kids Porter and Miles.
|
|
SYDNEY GOGGINSDiversity Equity & Inclusion Volunteer
Sydney works in PR in Nashville. She has always been passionate about representation within media and looks forward to leveraging underrepresented voices within the film community. She is excited to connect with members and brainstorm outreach initiatives.
|
|
TBAMarketing Communications Volunteer
Your Bio Here!
|
WE NEED YOU
Do you have the passion and stamina for public service?
If you can dedicate at least 1 year to lead and grow with NFG, pick an interest and sign up!
If you can dedicate at least 1 year to lead and grow with NFG, pick an interest and sign up!
