About Evergreen Film Academy

Our Story

Evergreen Film Academy was founded in 2010 by Amelia Hayes and Ethan Blake, two passionate filmmakers with a shared vision: to provide aspiring filmmakers in Seattle with access to high-quality, hands-on education. Amelia, a seasoned director with several independent films under her belt, and Ethan, an acclaimed cinematographer known for his innovative visual style, recognized a gap in the local film education landscape. They envisioned a school that combined rigorous academic instruction with practical experience, preparing students not just to understand filmmaking theory but to excel in the real-world environment of a film set.

The academy started small, with a single classroom and a handful of dedicated students. Early courses focused primarily on directing and cinematography, reflecting the founders' areas of expertise. However, as the academy's reputation grew, so did its curriculum. Within a few years, Evergreen Film Academy expanded to include courses in screenwriting, film editing, sound design, and even visual effects.

From its humble beginnings, Evergreen Film Academy has remained committed to its core values: student-centered learning, industry-relevant training, and a supportive, collaborative community. The academy's success stories speak for themselves, with alumni going on to work on major motion pictures, television shows, and independent film projects. Many graduates have also launched their own successful production companies, contributing to the vibrant filmmaking scene in Seattle and beyond.

In 2018, Evergreen Film Academy moved to its current state-of-the-art facility in the Belltown neighborhood, complete with multiple soundstages, editing suites, a screening room, and a fully equipped equipment room. This expansion allowed the academy to offer even more comprehensive training and further enhance the student experience. The move solidified Evergreen Film Academy's position as Seattle's premier film education center.

Mission & Vision

Our Mission

The mission of Evergreen Film Academy is to empower aspiring filmmakers with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need to succeed in the dynamic world of cinema. We strive to provide a comprehensive and industry-relevant education that fosters creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking. We are committed to cultivating a diverse and inclusive learning environment where students can develop their unique artistic voices and build a strong foundation for a fulfilling career in filmmaking.

Our Vision

Our vision is to be recognized as the leading film academy in the Pacific Northwest, renowned for our innovative curriculum, experienced faculty, and exceptional student outcomes. We aspire to be a catalyst for the growth and development of the local film industry, producing graduates who are not only technically proficient but also artistically inspired and socially responsible. We envision a future where Evergreen Film Academy alumni are shaping the landscape of cinema, creating compelling stories that resonate with audiences around the world.

To achieve our mission and vision, we focus on several key areas:

• Curriculum Development: We continuously update our curriculum to reflect the latest trends and technologies in the film industry, ensuring that our students are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities they will face upon graduation.
• Faculty Excellence: We recruit and retain experienced filmmakers and educators who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and mentoring aspiring filmmakers. Our faculty members are actively involved in the industry, bringing real-world expertise and connections to the classroom.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: We provide our students with access to cutting-edge equipment and facilities, including Arri Alexa cameras, Avid editing suites, and a professional soundstage. These resources allow students to gain hands-on experience with the tools they will use throughout their careers.
• Industry Partnerships: We cultivate strong relationships with local film production companies, studios, and organizations, providing students with valuable internship and networking opportunities.
• Community Engagement: We actively engage with the local community through film screenings, workshops, and outreach programs, promoting film education and appreciation.

Our Team

Evergreen Film Academy is proud to have a dedicated and talented team of instructors, staff, and administrators who are committed to providing our students with an exceptional learning experience. Our faculty members are experienced filmmakers with years of experience in directing, cinematography, screenwriting, editing, and other key areas of filmmaking. They bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom, and they are passionate about helping students develop their skills and pursue their dreams.

Eleanor Vance

Director and Professor of Directing

Jasper Thorne

Cinematographer and Instructor of Cinematography

Vivian Holloway

Screenwriter and Screenwriting Workshop Facilitator

In addition to our faculty, we have a dedicated staff who provide administrative, technical, and logistical support to our students and instructors. Our staff members are passionate about filmmaking and committed to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for everyone at Evergreen Film Academy. From admissions and registration to equipment rentals and career services, our staff is here to help students succeed.

Our administrative team is responsible for overseeing the overall operations of the academy, ensuring that we are meeting our mission and vision. Led by our President, Dr. Alistair Reed, the administrative team is committed to providing strategic leadership and sound financial management. They work closely with the faculty and staff to ensure that Evergreen Film Academy remains a leading film education center.