My love of film began early, shaped by family movie nights and the excitement of growing up with an older brother who worked at a movie theater — which, luckily for me, often meant free tickets. Movies have always offered me a powerful sense of escape: a chance to step into fantastical worlds, explore unfamiliar perspectives, and experience stories that place real-life emotions and situations into contexts I may not have considered otherwise.

My favorite genres are science fiction, fantasy, and historical dramas, though I am continuing to develop a deeper appreciation for foreign films and the unique ways they tell stories across cultures. In my current professional role, I am also beginning to learn more about production and directing for short films and advertisements, which has given me a much greater appreciation for the creativity, coordination, and technical skill required to bring even a small film project to life.

As Vice Chair of the Board of Directors for the Phoenix Film Foundation, I am honored to support an organization that celebrates the art of film, uplifts filmmakers, and creates meaningful opportunities for audiences to connect through storytelling.