In 2025, more than 220 local high school juniors and seniors experienced the life-changing RIFF Student Film Academy.
Each student attended the event free of charge because RIFF, industry leaders, community supporters and arts non-profit organizations are investing in their future.
Each student chose their own path through the day from hands-on classes taught by academic leaders and industry pros. From film to advertising to digital gaming — each class employed discussion, demonstration and hands-on experience. By the day’s end, attendees understood the myriad education options in Northwest Georgia in film and digital media, and they took home information about scholarships, grants and loans available for digital media studies in Georgia.
Topics covered included scriptwriting, set-building, working with film equipment, how to prepare to become a part of the e-sports industry, how horror movies are much more than blood, guts and gore, and how corporate advertising provides a rewarding career.
Over lunch students enjoyed the RIFF High School Student Film Competition submissions and voted on their favorites.
Hands-on Learning at the RIFF Student Academy
During Lunch students watched the high school student film submissions.
Discussions with industry pros are part of the Academy.
Scholarships Supported Our 2025 Students:
The RIFF Student Film Academy is made possible through generous gifts from community members and companies who support our students.
Frank Barron
Leanne & Joe Cook
Jan & Phil Fergerson
Anna Garner
Beverly Kievman Copen
Linda Owens, generously gave multiple scholarships
High Tech Signs, generously gave multiple scholarships
Thanks to the Georgia Council for the Arts, to the National Endowment for the Arts, and to the Rome Area Council for the Arts for their generous support of this program through 2024 grants.
And thank you to Greg Major and Chick-fil-A of Rome for a delicious, nutritious lunch, and to Phillip Gaines and Hi-Tech Signs for believing that education is the best way to ensure a bright future for Northwest Georgia.
