Our Team
We are the region’s only program for youth ages 8-19 who love to make and watch films. The Academy of Cinematic Arts is a Christian, arts/education nonprofit that is committed to helping students discover their stories through digital storytelling, film, and media, providing youth with educational programs, social experiences, competition, award recognition, and a sense of community.
We know that stories change lives and people stretch, grow, feel, change, inspire, and innovate because of stories. We become our best selves, witness our worst, and truly live our lives through stories. When the next generation tells stories well, they become empowered and elevate their communities in ways we can only begin to imagine.
Ann Brinkmann
Executive Director
Ann oversees the development, administration, strategic planning, community outreach, fundraising, marketing, programming, and event planning for all Academy events.
Lanie Berlage
Digital Media Producer
Lanie creates and manages digital content for all educational programs as well as content for social media, the website, and blogs. In addition, she oversees the ASEP program and assists in the direction of the GLASFF, TFC, Summer Film Camps, and the Golden Gala.
Joseph Cox
Director | Instructor
Joe is the Director of the Teen Film Challenge and a screener for the Golden Lion Awards SFF. In addition, he teaches the 2-week Advanced High School Summer Film Camp.
Collin Hudson
Instructor
Collin is an Instructor for the Home School Program, After School Enrichment Program, and summer film camps. In addition, he screens films for both the Teen Film Challenge and the Golden Lion Awards Student Film Festival.
Noah Puckett
Instructor
Noah is an Instructor for the After School Enrichment Program, Fall/Spring workshops, and summer film camps. In addition, he screens films for both the Teen Film Challenge and the Golden Lion Awards Student Film Festival.
Erica Bock
Instructor
Erica is an instructor for the Fall/Spring workshops and judges for the Golden Lion Awards Student Film Festival. With an MA in Screenwriting, Erica teaches the Screenwriting Summer camps.
Annie Fitzpatrick
Instructor
Annie is an accomplished actress in TV/film and theatre. She has performed in regional productions as well as in New York and abroad. Annie teaches the Acting for Film Summer Camps.