The 2018 IES Abroad Study Abroad Film Festival, in benefit of IES Abroad scholarships, was a magical night to remember. Not only were the incredible student filmmakers celebrated, one Film Festival jury member was also recognized for his efforts.
IES Abroad President & CEO Dr. Mary. M. Dwyer honored Willard Huyck (Paris, Academic Year 1965-66) – an Academy Award-nominated screenwriter, director, and producer, and dedicated Film Festival jury member – with the inaugural Standing Ovation Award.
The IES Abroad Standing Ovation Award honors an individual or group whose outstanding contributions have enabled IES Abroad to continue to provide the Study Abroad Film Festival as a platform for students to share their study abroad experiences with the world through film. The award recipient is a source of inspiration to IES Abroad young filmmakers, and their contributions grow the recognition and impact of the Film Festival.
Willard epitomizes the inspiration behind this award. His professional film credits include American Graffiti, Lucky Lady, French Postcards, Best Defense, and Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom. He also worked on the screenplays for Star Wars Episode IV – A New Hope and Mission: Impossible, just to name a few.
“We are honored to work with Willard. Since the inception of the Film Festival, Willard has been actively involved as a juror, not only offering his expertise and suggestions for improving the Festival, but also consistently giving thorough and thoughtful critiques of our students’ films,” said Dr. Dwyer. “We are so thankful for all the time he has dedicated over the last five years.”
Unfortunately, Willard was not able to accept his award in person; however, Willard’s acceptance speech was recorded and played for the audience on the big screen.
