Celebrating Emerging Filmmakers at the Women of Chapman’s “Stars of Tomorrow” Event

On May 8, the New Port Theater in Corona del Mar played host to a vibrant gathering organized by the Women of Chapman, celebrating the talents of students from Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts. Dubbed the “Stars of Tomorrow,” this Hollywood-style red carpet event attracted over 150 attendees.

Event Highlights

The evening featured the screening of five distinguished student films, showcasing the creativity and innovation of Dodge College seniors. Each filmmaker received scholarships awarded through the Women of Chapman Student Endowment Fund, a program that has financially supported students’ film projects for over a decade.

Guests indulged in a VIP reception that included an iconic Marilyn Monroe lookalike, along with paparazzi capturing the excitement of the night. During the event, Dodge College Dean Stephen Galloway conducted interviews with the filmmakers, bringing their experiences and aspirations to the forefront.

Recognition and Support for Filmmakers

Dodge College has earned a reputation as one of the fastest-rising film schools globally, recently ranked as the fourth best in the United States by notable industry publications, including The Wrap and The Hollywood Reporter.

Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, including three full-size soundstages and a cutting-edge virtual studio. Dean Galloway also hosts “Master Classes” that feature Hollywood’s leading writers, actors, and filmmakers, enriching the students’ educational journey.

Generous Sponsorship and Community Involvement

The “Stars of Tomorrow” event was made possible through the generous support of several sponsors, including Adrienne Brandes, Mikey Lares, Luke and Jenny Carlson of Carlson Law, and Erin McDonald. The event was organized by a dedicated committee comprising Kathy Hamilton, Sue Hook, Mikey Lares, Kristin Martin, and Mary Murfey, with additional gratitude extended to Fariborz and Azan Maseeh from the Port Theater for their contributions.

Conclusion

With the combination of community support and institutional excellence, the event reinforced the commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers. The Women of Chapman’s ongoing efforts illustrate the vital role they play in empowering students to succeed in the competitive landscape of film and media arts.