SAG-AFTRA New England Local in the Classroom

Student filmmakers and performers constitute the future of New England’s film industry. That’s why the New England Local Board and staff have been active in the classroom, visiting — both virtually and in person — local universities and colleges to spread information about the union and teach students how to work as both a producer and performer. 

From February to May 2023, local staff and members visited campuses throughout the Greater Boston Area, including Boston College, Boston University, Emerson College, Endicott College, MassArt and Northeastern University. Through these efforts, over 150 undergraduate and graduate students were reached. 

Young filmmakers are seeing that SAG-AFTRA is here to work with them and ensure that they can materialize their vision on the screen with the right contract and professional talent. In-depth conversations about the Micro-Budget Project Agreement and the student agreement offer great opportunities to ensure that more sets in New England are covered under union contracts. Student actors meanwhile are learning about the perks of membership and the terrific opportunities they receive when they are in solidarity with their fellow actors.

With the spring semester wrapping up, the New England Local is looking forward to the fall, when the board and staff will conduct even further outreach and continue building relationships with the directors and performers of tomorrow.

Photo: On Feb. 16, SAG-AFTRA New England Local Executive Director Jessica Maher and Business Representative Dylan Capossela spoke with Assistant Professor Julia Halperin's graduate production class at Emerson College in Boston.