From designing interview questions in production to text-based editing in postproduction, AI can be used to support both teaching and documentary production. Prof. Beeman shares tips, strategies and considerations for AI in all phases of the production workflow.

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​"As someone early in my teaching career, UFVA gave me a sense of belonging and hope for what’s ahead for me. Being part of the Faculty Fellows made me feel like I was truly part of something meaningful. The connections I made went beyond professional networking and turned into genuine friendships and creative partnerships. What stayed with me most from the conference was the reminder that our core purpose is helping students become storytellers."

How to Make 3D Art Without Losing Your Ghost in the Machine: A fun, slightly chaotic (guide) to 3D, AI, and archives in the age of digital doubt

Prof. Benavides shares his wisdom as both a documentarian and a teacher of 3D animation to explore how digital doubt, nostalgia and myths play into current understanding of new technologies including AI.

How do students learn about real-world issues including financial literacy, resume development and interviewing skills? Prof. Burchick explains how she helps students from a wide variety of backgrounds and experiences develop self-awareness and meaningful practical skills through her 7-week accelerated course Reel World: Professional Portfolio.

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"Having the opportunity to attend UFVA as a fellow during its inaugural year at HBCU, Prairie View A&M University set a historic precedent for a week that was inspiring, informative, and vital to my growth as an educator. It was immeasurable in building community with like-minded professors who are brave in the classroom and seek to inspire students by recognizing and honoring their individual identities, especially right now. I am both appreciative and proud to be a part of this talented group of fellows."

Prof. Contreas talks about the importance of working with community in documentary production, using case studies including his recent documentary about the search for safe drinking water, The Flow of Justice (2025).

Evolving Pronouns: Gender, Language, and the Future of Media Studies

When and how should film schools teach students about relevant aspects of business and law? Ms. Narumanchi discusses the supreme court, intellectual property, copyright and labor structures from a culturally aware perspective as they pertain to students and creative producers.

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"Being a UFVF Fellow allowed space, place and time for me to share my awakenings on the urgent need for systemic change across interconnected ecosystems of law, business and creative capital.  The filmmaking community is deeply influential in shaping human consciousness and it was an honor to present at UFVA and especially at Prairie View A&M; an HBCU deeply rooted in ancestral memory and a living reminder that dignity is our birthright.  The conference was full of thought-provoking sessions and generous faculty always ready to share their own paths.  A truly inspiring experience."

Dr. Shafiani talks about how AI tools are changing postproduction workflows. He walks us through tools available in Adobe Premiere Pro and AVID and reflects on what these new tools mean for industry and education.

Professor Devon "Vonnie" Smith explores Vertical Cinema/Smart Phone filmmaking as an alternative to traditional approaches to media production. Vertical Cinema democratizes the practice of film and media-making, allowing for their to be more diverse voices within the practice, alternative ways of viewing work, and breaking down the technical/equipment barriers that aspiring filmmakers may face.

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"The UFVA conference was a real treat. I truly enjoyed listening and learning from colleagues and potential collaborators. If I could describe UFVA in one word it would be "transformative." Thank you all again for the opportunity."

PHD Candidate at University of California San Diego