The following 60 students have been nominated for the 2024 Artist of the Year in film and TV by teachers and private instructors at Orange County high schools and arts organizations.
See more nominees
Dance
Instrumental music
Vocal music
Theater
Fine arts
Media arts
This year, when students filled out their portion of the nomination application, they were asked to list their strongest specialty in this discipline. In past years, teachers chose this for them.
The nominees are listed below with an endorsement from their nominating teacher, the identification of their strongest specialty and a link to their work. Those students missing their specialty and link did not complete their application, however, they are still considered nominees because they are being honored by their teacher and school.
Aztlalt Aguirre Paredes
Editing: General
“Aztlalt Aguirre Paredes, a prodigious talent in my video production class, exhibits a remarkable ability to translate his fine arts skills into new media, showcasing a fusion of disciplines that is both rare and inspiring. Aztlalt’s prowess in editing is nothing short of spectacular. Each project he undertakes is a testament to his technical mastery and boundless creativity. His documentary on climate change and PSA on public speaking are not just videos; they are vibrant, visual narratives that demonstrate his skill in using the camera and editing tools to convey deep, impactful messages.” — Shayan Vaziritabar, Buena Park High School
Gia Banks-Meeker
“Gia has grown in confidence so much over the past two years, now having served as the director of multiple projects. Gia has strong creative ideas and artistic visions for her projects, but most notable is her skill in working conflict free with others. She has a knack for other people and getting them to work harder and care as much as she does about the final product.” — David Amrein, JSerra Catholic High School
Chase W. Bennett
Cinematography
Chase W. Bennett of Huntington Beach, a junior studying at the Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Jasyn Chiuppi)
“Chase’s cinematography, directing, and writing is cohesive and creative. He has an innate charisma, and communicates well with those around him, both of which are crucial traits for a director to have on set. It’s the reason most students flock to him when they’re looking for a crew or cinematographer. Chase is also well aware of the time and place for those leadership skills to come into play, and does not attempt to overpower the people he may be working under.” — Michael Simmons, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Austin Bonar
Cinematography
Austin Bonar of Los Alamitos, a junior studying at Fairmont Preparatory Academy, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Austin Bonar)
“Austin demonstrates a strong understanding of how cinematography and editing can tell a story. He has a strong grasp on what it takes to engage an audience and bring them into a world that he creates. Beyond his abilities, Austin has shown a willingness to work with others and his work helps elevate their projects to the next level of creativity.” — Nick Ochoa, Fairmont Preparatory Academy
Isaiah Burgoa
Directing
Isaiah Burgoa of Santa Ana, a junior studying at Santa Ana High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Charles Mendoza)
“As his teacher, I’ve witnessed his transformation from a reserved student to a confident, expressive artist. Isaiah’s early challenges in articulating his vision have evolved into a mastery of storytelling, as seen in ‘The Snatcher,’ which creatively addresses themes of family. His growth is further evident in ‘December’ and his AVID videos, where his innovative editing and concise visual storytelling shine. Isaiah now excels in creating detailed storyboards and experimenting with lighting effects, demonstrating his technical proficiency and artistic flair. His passion for film is palpable in every project.” — Eric Timmons, Santa Ana High School
Luxy Bynum
Directing: Narrative
“Luxy first joined my video production class during her 10th grade year, and now during her 12th grade year, she has returned to my Advanced Video Production class to enhance her skills. Since an early age, Luxy has loved the art of the screen, both in front of and behind the camera. She has been a child-actress for many years, and more recently in her teenage years, she has been increasingly dedicated to video and film production. Her films show true depth, and her ability to work as a team member and leader has propelled her to great heights in her budding filmmaking career.” — Jun Shen, Laguna Beach High School
Lincoln Scott Cole
Editing: Documentary
Lincoln Scott Cole of Mission Viejo, a junior studying at Capistrano Valley High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Lincoln Scott Cole)
“As a freshman Lincoln showed a great eye for every part of the filmmaking process. He has since grown and developed these skills to the point that he has a distinct voice. His work doesn’t feel digital. It is tactile and organic and it has a natural ebb and flow to it that is not easy to teach but he seems to learn naturally.” — Craig Landino, Capistrano Valley High School
James Conlee
Directing: Documentary
“James Conlee is super talented, and possesses a unique combination of the technical and artistic aspects of filmmaking. This makes him a great cinematographer, but he is so much more than that. He is also an outstanding editor, and probably the only student in my class who is as comfortable behind the camera. … I absolutely love his most recent documentary film that combines a great story, solid cinematography and animated scenes to illustrate the story he is trying to tell.” — Mark Switzer, El Dorado High School
Cooper Rey Kawase Cuya
Directing: Narrative
“Cooper is a very talented filmmaker. He has directed and produced multiple class and personal narrative films. Cooper has a real gift for understanding the art of cinema. His work as a filmmaker is nothing short of extraordinary. Throughout my 18-year tenure as a film and broadcasting educator, Cooper’s artistry consistently ranks among the most memorable. Films like his experimental film, “Waking Hour” and documentary film, “Way Off Base”, which he created in his sophomore year, earned multiple film awards.” — Mark Switzer, El Dorado High School
Sofia Anne de Lucia
TV/Broadcast Storytelling
Sofia Anne de Lucia of Long Beach, a senior studying at Mater Dei High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Jai Pandhoh)
“Sof is as motivated a student as I’ve come across in my time at Mater Dei. She’s a natural born storyteller and can do it all when it comes to broadcast journalism. She’s a brilliant videographer, an intuitive reporter, and already possesses a veteran-like presence on camera.” — Kenny Connolly, Mater Dei High School
Casen Dow
Directing: Narrative
“It is not unusual for Casen to stay after class for almost an hour discussing film production and the roles of the film industry. Casen also has a strong ambition that never fails to impress. Just like the other seniors they share the stage with, Casen works to write and direct their own short films but in half the time, and double the cast. But this is when their spectacular leadership comes into play. Casen creates teams that utilize the crew member’s strengths and fills the gap in Casen’s experience. They are also one of the most adaptable directors we have seen in our program.” — Michael Simmons, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
David Du
Cinematography
“The camera is like another extension of David Du. He’s directed and animated but loves cinematography. His work is vivid, emotional and risky. He knows exactly where to place the camera. His camera views his subjects with empathy, while also revealing hard truths about them and their situations. Some of his most stunning work is borne out of questions he’s trying to ask of himself.” — Aaron Orullian, Orange County School of the Arts
Quinten Franks
Directing: Narrative
“Most of our students excel in the creative aspects of film, but very few manage to have a complete grasp on all of the logistics, planning, budgeting, and scheduling required to be successful in the motion picture industry. And then, there’s Quinten Franks. Quinten is gifted with the mind of a producer, and the vision of a director. … Creatively, Quinten’s concepts are rock solid, and his execution of them is practically professional grade. He’s able to quickly come up with an idea, and begin execution from start to finish, a process which has netted him strong results.” — Michael Simmons, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Amrita Gala
Directing: Narrative
Amrita Gala of Villa Park, a junior studying at Fairmont Preparatory Academy, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Amrita Gala)
“Amrita puts passion into every film she creates and works diligently with others to achieve her filmmaking goals. As a director she is thorough with her planning and is easily able to lead other group members in order to create successful films. As a student she is always looking to improve and challenges herself to create films that are tests her abilities as a filmmaker.” — Nick Ochoa, Fairmont Preparatory Academy
Ethan Scott Garcia
Directing: Narrative
Ethan Scott Garcia of Tustin, a junior studying at Beckman High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Edgar Garcia)
“Ethan has demonstrated an exceptional ability to push his boundaries as a director. His most recent project, a Wes Anderson-inspired film, reflects not only his hard work but also his innovative approach to storytelling and filmmaking. Ethan’s collaborative spirit makes him a great team player, positively impacting his peers. His problem-solving skills are evident in how he navigates the challenges of filmmaking, making him a true inspiration to other students in my program.” — Nathan Boice, Beckman High School
Milo Ambrose Gasset
Editing: Narrative
“Milo has a truly great ability to make ideas happen. This year he has really stepped into his natural talents and abilities. What makes him such a great artist is that he embraces the ideas of playing with art as a way to practice his art in a way that makes for better performance once the time comes to execute his ideas. I’m excited to see where he goes next with his artistry!” — Craig Landino, Capistrano Valley High School
Jack Goble
Cinematography
“Jack is an absolute machine, excelling at cinematography and choreography. His own excitement is evident in his energetic cinematography, utilizing camera movement, lighting setups, and practical effects to create the desired outcome. This is the case both as a director and cinematographer as well as with his camera operator jobs during our live shows. Whenever Jack is on a handheld, all of his peers cheer him on, knowing fully well that they’re about to see some magic happen. He captures the energy of the performers on stage with his control of the camera, and his utilization of composition, movement, and focus, all while live on stage.” — Michael Simmons, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Kayla V. Gomez
Directing: Music video
Kayla V. Gomez of Huntington Beach, a junior studying at the Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Kate Marcus)
“Kayla Gomez, like most artists, has a message or feeling they invoke when both creating and watching their work. While some students utilize a random assortment of elements in a project, Kayla cuts through the noise to artistically select the elements of chaos she wishes to display. As a Live Production Director, Kayla is calm, collected, and able to take control of any situation, regardless of the many aspects that may be outside of her control. This not only makes her skilled at leading a crew through a sea of varying challenges, but also at adaptation to new problems.” — Michael Simmons, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Cody G. Gooch
Directing: Commercials
Cody G. Gooch of Placentia, a junior studying at Valencia High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Thuy Gooch)
“At Valencia, we have a unique Sports and Event Broadcasting class. The class is now in its third year. Cody came to the class last year and has helped build our studio, systems and graphics operation right along side me. … He has taken the lead to understand and implement ALL of these systems and technology and in many aspects knows it better than me. … The strides we have taken this year with Cody’s leadership has been outstanding.” — Rod Boaz, Valencia High School
Gavin Grant
“Gavin is a very talented, creative, and experienced student filmmaker. I only just met him this school year when he signed up for my advanced film class. I don’t typically allow new students to join this course, but Gavin easily earned a spot with the quality of work in his portfolio. Gavin’s primary skill is editing, but he is also confident and skilled as a cinematographer and always has creative ideas for original stories.” — David Amrein, JSerra Catholic High School
Phoenix Matthew Hale
Editing: Documentary
Phoenix Matthew Hale of Yorba Linda, a senior studying at Esperanza High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Amy Hale)
“He has a keen eye and his attention to detail is unmatched in video editing and special effects. … Phoenix has created numerous graphics not only for our classroom broadcast, but has taken the initiative to learn after effects to learn how to create effects, backgrounds, transitions and lower thirds that were not part of the program. Phoenix is a gifted and unique student that has overcome many learning issues to not only succeed but flourish in video production.” — Sue Sawyer, Esperanza High School
Hunter Hales
Directing: Narrative
Hunter Hales of Newport Beach, a senior studying at Tarbut V’Torah, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Wendy Hales)
“Among his accomplished film projects is his hilarious original commercial parody about a pharmaceutical that prevents people from using annoying and offensive phrases. … I was struck by the inventive visuals that Hunter used to make this clever fake commercial. Hunter not only spends the necessary time to improve his own work, but also actively encourages his classmates to take their roles seriously as cinematographers, actors, and editors. Because of his vast knowledge of film production, other students in the class always benefit from Hunter’s input.” — Hugh Fink, Tarbut V’Torah
Ramone Hamilton
Directing: Narrative
“Ramone Hamilton wants to move us. His films and stories throw us into surprising situations about race, acceptance, choice, and forgiveness. His characters are sometimes people we admire, sometimes people we struggle to understand. He wants us to think. He seeks to work out social issues and dynamics through narrative role-play, digging into his characters’ dilemmas right before our eyes. His stories jump through the light and the dark, offering the possibility of accountability and redemption.” — Aaron Orullian, Orange County School of the Arts
Riley Harrison
Cinematography
Riley Harrison of Corona del Mar, a senior studying at St. Margaret’s Episcopal School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Rian Otto)
“Riley has an incredibly mature artistic sense of filmmaking. He is a well rounded filmmaker and has done some incredible work in writing, directing, and editing his own films serving as cinematographer and composer as well. His last film ‘Ghost Light’ included some really complex lighting and beautiful camera work.” — Karen Bennett, St. Margaret’s Episcopal School
Hunaina Hirji
Sound Design/Scoring
“As a junior Hunaina won Best PSA at both the Valencia Film Festival and the Orange County Film Festival for her work ‘Trapped.’ … In this 90-second piece, Hunaina’s expertise in not only sound design is showcased, but also her amazing skills in storytelling, direction, shot selection, and editing. I know this is a piece that Hunaina spent countless hours on in long editing sessions. It is such a joy to see a student produce such professional pieces. Watching her work and constantly revise her film until she is satisfied with every second of footage and each and every of the myriad sounds on her timeline.” — Richard Cadra, Yorba Linda High School
David Holper
“David has a passion for all things film, visual storytelling, and cinematography. He fell in love with film after literally walking into the video class during an off period his sophomore year and continues to learn as much as he can. … He can always be counted on to step up, take the lead, complete anything he commits to and really manages his schedule. …He loves video storytelling and used his entire winter break filming for another film festival.” — Sue Sawyer, Esperanza High School
Simone James
“Simone has been a committed member of our film program (in addition to our dance program!) for the past two year. Simone has a strong creative sense for film, which is extremely evident in both her insightful comments during class discussions about films and her work as a director of student film projects. Simone also has a strong ability to lead others in a very collaborative manner.” – David Amrein, JSerra Catholic High School
Jason Jimenez
“Jason is the perfect blend of what a young filmmaker should be these days … talented with the technology, able to connect with his audience, and interested working side-by-side with his cast and crew to produce the best project possible. He is the total package.” — Jim Falletta, Troy High School
Gigi Lau
Directing: Music Video, Experimental
“I am proud to nominate Gigi Lau for Artist of the Year in Film and TV. Gigi is our class producer and constantly has her hands in productions from the school broadcast, to ASB promos, to her own personal films. Gigi’s main focus is in production design, she loves to create worlds, dress characters, and find the perfect prop to help tell her stories. She has used her passion for design as a way to bring her films to life.” — Nathan Boice, Beckman High School
Ian Lee
Cinematography
“Ian is a gifted cinematographer and director who brings a natural passion to his work, but what sets him apart is his willingness to help others execute their vision. Ian has a natural eye for the camera and is always willing to push the envelope of what students can accomplish through his work.” — Nick Ochoa, Fairmont Preparatory Academy
Tyler D. Lee
Cinematography
“Tyler Lee can always be found farther ahead of his peers in creativity, passion, and a distinct sense of style and storytelling. His studies of lighting and cinematography has led to a precision in its application to his storytelling as a director and visionary. He has sharpened his filmmaking skills to a fine point in such a short time, that his workflow is nearly double that of other students in sheer efficiency and speed. His fellow peers have coined this phenomenon, as pulling a ‘Matthew Cheese,’ named after the insightful short film made by Tyler in less than 24 hours.” – Michael Simmons, Huntington Beach High School
Ella Maria Lindner
Cinematography
“Ella Lindner is a cinematographer who sees things clearly. She reveals characters to us. She is both a solid technician and crafter of beautiful images. Her camera and Vazen lens are like her close friends — and she’s usually carrying them around when she’s out on trips. Her documentary work conveys her passion for people who themselves have passions, and she’s also learning how to be a fine artist on the side (as a bladesmith). She’s open to new adventures, easy to work with and generous with her time.” — Aaron Orullian, Orange County School of the Arts
Victoria Loza
Directing: Narrative
Victoria Loza of Placentia, a senior studying at Esperanza High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Rudy Loza)
“She has turned into the best leader we have ever had in the program and has been instrumental in moving the program forward. She can always be counted on to step up, take the lead, complete anything she commits to and really manages her schedule. She actively seeks new opportunities to expand her point of view. She regularly endeavors to operate out of her comfort zone but within her strength zone.” — Sue Sawyer, Esperanza High School
Quentin Marino
“Quentin Marino is a creator and a climber. He loves to make films and … rock climb, which are not too dissimilar actually! Like a climber making a gazillion calculations on their ascent, I can often see the gears moving in Quentin’s head as he plots and plans out his next film. His storytelling is complex. His camerawork reveals and conceals. He conveys the tricky journeys of his characters as they navigate each handhold, sometimes falling or wavering. His visual eye is right there with his subjects: watching, waiting, inviting us in as collaborators.” — Aaron Orullian, Orange County School of the Arts
Sanjana Menon
“She has proven herself as a talented producer, editor, and artist. This year, Sanju is head editor in my class, charged with editing together each episode of our broadcast, Beckman Beat, as well as giving her peers feedback on their projects before putting them each episode. This semester she has spent a lot of time focusing on creative work, editing her most recent film ‘Let it Happen’ to create a whimsical and stylized world of a dream through her cuts and visual effects.” — Nathan Boice, Beckman High School
Austin Nesbihal
Editing: Narrative
Austin Nesbihal of Yorba Linda, a senior studying at Esperanza High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Erin Nesbihal)
“The quality of his work is impeccable for a young adult of his age. He has a keen eye and his attention to detail is unmatched in video editing and special effects. … As a true artist, his career goal is to become a cinematographer and work in the film industry. Austin has created numerous graphics not only for our classroom broadcast, but for other clients outside of school. He took the initiative to learn after effects to learn how to create transitions and lower thirds that were not part of the program and then taught all the other students in the class.” — Sue Sawyer, Esperanza High School
Aubrey Newman
Directing: PSAs, Promos, Commercials
Aubrey Newman of Anaheim Hills, a senior studying at Canyon High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Morgan Terreri)
“Audrey has honed a deep understanding of the technical and creative aspects of media creation. Her training extends beyond the screen; she is a versatile artist with skills in drama, choir, drawing, and painting, showcasing her diverse artistic abilities. What truly sets Audrey apart is her exceptional leadership. As the director of a weekly school broadcast, she has demonstrated remarkable capacity to inspire and manage a diverse team of students. This role requires not just technical skill, but also patience, adaptability, and the ability to bring out the best in others.” — Alex Graham, Canyon High School
Adelynn Thao-Vy Nguyen
Editing: Narrative
Adelynn Thao-Vy Nguyen of Placentia, a junior studying at Valencia High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Robert Nguyen)
“Addy is a passionate filmmaker who strives for perfection in her work. Projects include helping with set design for Valencia’s 24 Hour Video ‘Supernatural,’ editing and acting in Valencia’s 48 Hour Film Festival submission, and producing and editing “PDA PSA” in TigerTube.” — Rod Boaz, Valencia High School
Devin Long-Anh Nguyen
Cinematography
Devin Long-Anh Nguyen of Santa Ana, a junior studying at Tarbut V’Torah, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Madison Miller)
“The first class I ever taught Devin Nguyen, and he engaged me in a conversation about why Christopher Nolan is his favorite director, I remember thinking to myself, ‘Who is this teenager with such a deep comprehension of film as art?’ Since that time, I have seen Devin’s skills as a filmmaker grow, along with his appreciation for both classic and contemporary cinema. His ability to analyze great films reminds me of director Francois Truffaut, combined with the self-assertive enthusiasm of Quentin Tarantino, and the critical eye of Roger Ebert.” – Hugh Fink, Tarbut V’Torah
Elise Park
Editing: Documentary
“Elise has a unique voice that comes through in her work. She is dedicated and great at bringing people together on a project. I’ve witnessed her flawlessly organize a group of filmmakers while other groups struggled to get started, and the final project was excellent. She isn’t afraid to take risks or to step back and support another filmmaker’s vision, and that bodes well for her future as a filmmaker.” — Lindsay Schoenfeld, Orange County School of the Arts
Jacob Pascual
Directing: Narrative
“Jacob is one of the more ambitious students I have had in my program in a long time. He is always working on a new script or mood board for his next film, or maybe the one after that one. His vision behind every project is clear, and his technical skills are catching up quickly. What is unique about Jacob is he has the drive and creativity to actually follow through with those big ideas, even when I may try to reel him in a little.” — Nathan Boice, Beckman High School
Macy Patterson
Directing: Narrative
Macy Patterson of Yorba Linda, a senior studying at El Dorado High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Raquel Alba)
“Macy Patterson’s imprint on our film and broadcasting class is significant. Whether it’s her unique sense of humor, inherent creativity, or her genuine kindheartedness, her contributions always stand out. These qualities have been pivotal in her transformation as a content creator and filmmaker. Last year, she produced a series of notable podcast episodes, participated in one of our writer’s workshops, and her short film, ‘Last Chance,’ not only won the best short film at our El Dorado Film Festival but also secured a coveted spot as an official selection at the Valencia Film Festival.” — Mark Switzer, El Dorado High School
Dominic Phan
Directing: Documentary
“It has been a great privilege to see Dominic grow as a filmmaker and specifically in sports promotion. He is sought out by coaches and students that hope to be promoted by his cinematography and editing. It is always exciting to see someone find their place like Dominic has.” — Craig Landino, Capistrano Valley High School
Tahlia Pompel
Cinematography
Tahlia Pompel of Placentia, a senior studying at El Dorado High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Madison Duffey)
“Tahlia Pompel is one of the bravest, most creative, organized, thoughtful, hardworking and involved student filmmakers I have ever worked with in my program. She is a leader. People listen when she offers her opinions on their work, and she is sought out by everyone in the class to collaborate with on projects. As a regular contributor to our award-winning weekly school news broadcast, Tahlia’s work has been nothing short of exemplary.” — Mark Switzer, El Dorado High School
Karina Ramirez
TV/Broadcast Storytelling
Karina Ramirez of Yorba Linda, a senior studying at El Dorado High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Cooper Cuya)
“Where Karina really shines is as a documentary filmmaker. She is one of the best student documentary filmmaker I have ever worked with. Her work is technically amazing, thought provoking and has tons of heart. She has been nominated for, and won, multiple awards for her work over the past 4 years. Her best work focuses on telling people’s personal journeys and the challenges they face along the way. Karina’s best qualities are her willingness to lend a hand to people in need, and her ability to recognize where help is needed.” — Mark Switzer, El Dorado High School
Zoey Rodriguez
Directing: Narrative
Zoey Rodriguez of Yorba Linda, a junior studying at El Dorado High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Zoey Rodriguez)
“Zoey Rodriguez is one of the most creative and artistic voices currently in my film program. I have been impressed with her work since she applied to attend our school as an 8th grader. She has created several small animated films over the years that are simply amazing. She has even created her own music for a couple of them. Most recently, she directed a music video project that was fantastic. As a director, I think Zoey is really growing and developing a unique style — her most recent work really shows an understanding of the characters and story she was trying to create.” — Mark Switzer, El Dorado High School
Sophia Shapiro
TV/Broadcast Storytelling
“Sophia is a staple of the school’s film and media arts program. She has a wonderful on-air presence as both and anchor and field reporter. And as she’s become an intergral part of the school’s sports coverage, she’s shown tremendous growth behind the camera as a videographer. She’s as well-rounded as they come.” — Kenneth Connolly, Mater Dei High School
Eden Smith
“Eden’s passion for writing and production is evident in her willingness to engage students in a critical yet, productive manner. She was appointed the quality control producer for our weekly productions as a junior. Other accolades include writing an award winning 24 hour short film ‘Supernatural’ and co-directoring/producing, writing and interviewing for a women’s empowerment TigerTube segment.” — Rod Boaz, Valencia High School
Dawn Taganas
Visual Effects
Dawn Taganas of Cypress, a senior studying at Cypress High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Dawn Taganas)
“As a dedicated and seasoned teacher with 20 years of experience, I can confidently say that Dawn is one of the most talented, creative, and responsible students I have ever had the privilege to teach. Over the past couple of years as being her teacher, I witnessed Dawn’s substantial growth and development in her understanding of film production techniques, storytelling, and technical skills.” — Dean Delgado, Cypress High School
Zach Tapper
Directing: Narrative
Zach Tapper of Placentia, a junior studying at Valencia High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of FilmED Academy)
“Zach is a strong leader who is poised to be a lead producer for our broadcast class next year as a senior. He directed the 24 Hour Film Festival for our school’s submission, he is co founder and video creator for ‘Chasingtheunderground’ and my video student for three years. He is the segment producer for our sports segments and has the soft skills necessary to work collaboratively.” — Rod Boaz, Valencia High School
Mel Tenkoff
TV/Broadcast Storytelling
“Melusine is an integral part of the Video Production program and her leadership, organizational, and technical skills earned her the title of Director for the award-winning weekly news broadcast ‘Sunny Side Up.’ Melusine has devoted countless hours to documenting and live-streaming many school, district, and community events. … (She) has a strong belief in her ability to acquire new skills and improve through practice which has been visible this school year.” — Danny Flores, Sunny Hills High School
Diego Andres Terán
Directing: Documentary
“In addition to being a talented film director, Diego is a reliable collaborator and is always eager to learn more about film. He has great interpersonal skills, which show in his ability to work with actors and his film and television classmates, both on set and in the classroom.” — Lindsay Schoenfeld, Orange County School of the Arts
Judith Urbano
Directing: Narrative
“Judith’s work, both visually compelling and intellectually profound, captures complex themes of identity and societal issues. Her filmmaking transcends traditional storytelling, reflecting her growth from early short films to impactful documentaries. Judith’s passion for her craft is evident in every aspect of her work, from meticulous planning to eloquent articulation of her artistic vision. Her films connect deeply with audiences, making her a standout candidate for this award.” — Eric Timmons, Santa Ana High School
Lauren Vanderplas
Editing: Narrative
Lauren Vanderplas of Fountain Valley, a junior studying at the Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Kate Marcus)
“Every project Lauren Vanderplas has ever created in our film program can only be defined and described as ‘poetry in motion,’ with Lauren being the author of the frame. Lauren is an incredibly perceptive artist who displays thoughts, feelings, and emotion through her unique use of all aspects of film production. Mastery of the frame is something all directors strive for in their films, and Lauren is no exception.” — Michael Simmons, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Noah Villanueva
Directing: Narrative
Noah Villanueva of Irvine, a junior studying at Northwood High School, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Joy Bae)
“Noah is first and foremost and incredible storyteller who has become an amazing filmmaker. His films are just great stories, but are thoughtfully created taking into account all of the different elements that comprise films (cinematography, sound design, colors, etc.). Noah uses all of these elements to help him convey his stories’ meanings.” — Steve Sellwood, Northwood High School
Alfredo Villegas-Salas
Cinematography
“His short film on how cinema influenced his life reveals his deep passion for filmmaking. Beyond school, Alfredo’s experience on a professional film set and internships with independent filmmakers highlight his dedication to honing his craft and his networking prowess, preparing him for a career in cinema. His journey reflects both artistic growth and professional development.” — Eric Timmons, Santa Ana High School
Benjamin Weil
Visual Effects
“In the fast paced world of motion pictures, when it comes to editing and VFX, you want someone who is going to impress you, but stay on schedule, which is quite the tall order. Unless of course, you’re Ben Weil, a media senior who never fails to get projects done, and never fails to blow all of us away. Ben has grown so much ever since he’s joined the program, transforming from a shy reserved student, to a calm, compassionate leader.” — Michael Simmons, Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts
Alex Wheeler
Directing: Narrative
Alex Wheeler of Buena Park, a senior studying at Fairmont Preparatory Academy, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Edward Chang)
“Alex is a talented director with unique artistic sensibilities who brings a worldly perspective to his films. As a director he focuses heavily on comedy, drawing from a wide range of influences. As an editor Alex manages to use the art form to bring out performances and emotions from others while creating unique and interesting stories.” — Nick Ochoa, Fairmont Preparatory Academy
Alex Wolff
Directing: Documentary
“Alex Wolff is bilingual in English and cinema. The cinematic form is like a second native language to him. His work is fluid, daring, and memorable. He knows exactly how we need to see his stories. He’s proficient in documentary and drama, and prefers narratives that explore characters facing big moral decisions. He does a lot of client work outside of school, but his heart and work is the one of an artist.” — Aaron Orullian, Orange County School of the Arts
Sadira Wong
Directing: Narrative
Sadira Wong of Santa Ana, a senior studying at the Orange County School of the Arts, is a film and TV nominee for Artist of the Year in 2024. (Photo courtesy of Ella Lindner)
“Sadira is a bright, capable, and intellectually curious artist whom I believe will excel in all she sets forth to accomplish. … In my classes she excelled at creating challenging content for both her projects and collaborating with her classmates. She was always willing to travel outside her comfort zones and explore different perspectives and points of view previously unrevealed to her, resulting in great growth as both a student and a young adult. This is the measure of an artist, and Sadira welcomes these challenges.” — Michael Brown, Orange County School of the Arts