PWIFT NEWS:

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Nonprofit Philadelphia Women in Film & Television (PWIFT) 

Announces New President, Leadership Changes

Philadelphia, PA – February 24, 2025 – Philadelphia Women in Film & Television (PWIFT) is pleased to announce Phuong Nguyen has been named President of the organization’s Executive Board of Directors.

Nguyen, co-founder and Executive Director of The Women’s Film Festival and producer at production and distribution company, 3 Left Handed Women, previously served on the organization’s Executive Board of Directors. She succeeds Hillary Hanak-Newman, who held the post for three years. Hanak-Newman, along with Vice President Kelly Murray, successfully led the organization through building up its membership, organizing impactful virtual and in-person events, and expanding PWIFT’s reach throughout the Greater Philadelphia area.

In addition to the appointment of Nguyen as President, PWIFT announces changes to its Board of Directors. Alfreda “Fre” Howard will be stepping down after three years of service on the Board leading the Membership Committee. Hanak-Newman will transition to the role of Treasurer; Murray will transition to the Membership Committee. Tenured Board Members Betsy Braun, Suzanne Landau, and Dafna Yachin will remain Board Members-at-Large.

Nguyen’s appointment as President and the transition of new Board Members comes at an exciting time for PWIFT as the organization continues to grow and elevate its place as a leading resource for women in Philadelphia’s film, television, and media industries. In addition to leadership changes, PWIFT will focus on its commitment to emerging talent with the development and awarding of the Palmer Enfield Director Grant, a grant for first-time female directors working on their first film. PWIFT will also continue to provide innovative programs and events for members to attend throughout Philadelphia.

“I’m excited to continue supporting Phuong and the Board in this new chapter,” says Hanak-Newman, “Phuong’s leadership, passion, and deep commitment to PWIFT make her the ideal person to guide the organization into the future. I have no doubt that she will continue to elevate PWIFT’s impact and build on the foundation we’ve worked so hard to establish.”

PWIFT is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to recognizing, celebrating and advancing the professional development and achievement of women working in all areas of film, television, video, multimedia and related disciplines. PWIFT is committed to creating economic and social stimulus for its members and the community at large by helping emerging artists and established professional members reach their full potential, and by attracting new jobs, investment and production to the creative economy in the Philadelphia area. www.pwift.org 

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