AVPA Alumni Spotlight
Amel Gibson
Graduation year: 2017
AVPA School: Film
Quote: “AVPA was the highlight of my entire high school experience. I was in AVPA all 4 years of high school and it gave me so much structure and was the perfect balance of art and creativity to my rigorous academic schedule. I learned so much, made many friends (who I still love and cherish til this day).”
“It created the foundation for my entire future. It gave me structure and a place to nurture my gifts. Wouldn't have gotten into USC Film without AVPA Film. Wouldn't be pursuing my dreams as a professional photographer now.”
“My favorite memory is during my senior year, my documentary screened at Sony Pictures.”
Update: Went to USC film school, became a professional photographer - worked in the music industry, nightlife and also academia and fashion.
Stephanie Medlock
Graduation year: 2009
AVPA School: Theatre Performance / Dance
Quote: “It showed me that I could be myself and not only be excepted but also find a community of like minded and equally silly, passionate people.”
“I was able to feel confidence in pursuing art as a full time job. Having a hand in the making of productions also taught me how much work goes into something artist but that if you put the work in the pay off is overwhelmingly beautiful.”
Update: I can truly say that I wouldn’t be where I am today without AVPA. It was where I had learned that I loved Photography as I would do headshots for the shows and my friends in AVPA. I went on to study in Paris and have since had a wedding and portrait photography business. I would not have the skills and courage to pursue this incredibly fulfilling career if it weren’t for my years in the AVPA program.
Isabel Parra
Graduation year: 2017
AVPA School: Music / Theatre Performance
Quote: “AVPA was a place that fostered my passion for music and performance. It was also a place where I made many of my connections with new friends!”
“AVPA helped me choose my life path. It also helped me find my place in high school at a time where I felt very isolated. It’s a very helpful program that I know helped shaped the person I am today.”
“I used to be the vocalist for the jazz chamber group and the larger jazz ensemble. Those were experiences I still cherish. I had such a fabulous time in that role, and I really felt like I developed as an artist.”
Update: I’m a law student now! AVPA Music inspired me to major in music in college. Now I’m using that same knowledge to work towards becoming an Entertainment Attorney.
Dominic Cokely
Graduation year: 2017
AVPA School: Film
Quote: “AVPA was life changing to me in a way that was unique since prior schools I grew up in only had sports as extra curricular activities. CCHS presenting an art program to me that had various ways to express yourself was almost a shock to me since it was never presented as an option when I was in elementary or middle school. It helped me start my artist journey.”
“It helped me figure out what I wanted to do after high school. Prior to joining AVPA I assumed I would just figure out what I had a passion for after graduating or while in college. Thanks to AVPA, I was able to join my community college SMC and hit the ground running all while getting film industry gigs and completing media specialist programs.”
“I always loved the fact that my fellow "filmies" were so passionate about the process of art and were always so dedicated to the craft. Staying late after classes to talk about projects or spending lunch in the film room with our teacher/leader Ms. Butler/Reyes to help realize our visions and how we could grow. I have all of them to thank for where I am now in my career.
Absolutely loved the friendships I got from the program. Its crazy since I was only in AVPA for only 2 years and didn't get accepted after the tryout. Luckily someone dropped and I was given that spot. I always think about how different life would be if that never happened. All the late night shoots, long editing sessions, breaking down exported cuts and us laughing at the most inopportune of times when we record room tone lol. Eternally grateful for all the experiences.
Also one thing I feel like I took for granted was being a mentor for the middle school kids through the Young Storytellers program. Since I was a high school student (without much knowledge as my peers) I didn't really see myself as worthy to teach anything. I wish I would have been more confident and in the moment on those days instead of being so hard on myself.
I still keep in contact and do projects with a majority of my peers that were in the film program with me those 2 years and that's really the true meaning of AVPA. We have so much fun making art with each other and I hope future generations of CCHS students get to have that same experience as I did.
#Filmy4Lyfe”
Update: Currently working as a freelance AC. Worked in a film rental house (Bokeh Rentals) and a retail flagship store (FilmTools) which supply camera and lighting gear/equipment. Graduated from SMC's prestigious 'Promo Pathways' program taught by industry professionals.
Kari Kishi
Graduation year: 2017
AVPA School: Dance
Quote: “AVPA definitely made a huge impact on my high school experience. It helped me find a life-long passion for dance and the drive to work hard towards my goals. It was also just a safe space for me to meet many people and enjoy my time after school.”
“I believe, through AVPA, I was able to gain leadership skills, confidence in performing in front of others, and a love for school. Those things combined ultimately led me to pursue a profession in education. I am also currently a leader and mentor in my program to newer members and I think my time in AVPA helped me to grow into the person I am today.”
“I remember my first experience with AVPA was attending a Java Gala for my older sister who was in the art department. At the time, I was mesmerized by the dance performances, especially of this one piece with beautiful girls twirling in pink dresses. Once I entered high school myself, I was a bit lost on what to do for an extracurricular, having just quit basketball after playing for 10 years. But, I eventually found my way to AVPA. I joined the dance department in the 2nd trimester of my freshman year with no dance experience at all. From then, I took almost every dance class offered each semester in every style imaginable and participated in many dance concerts. By my senior year, I was so incredibly proud to have become the vice president of the dance department and have both my solo and group dance featured at my final Java Gala. It was truly such a beautiful full-circle moment for me. I don’t think I’ll ever forget the sense of pride and accomplishment I felt at that time.
It really is just amazing that AVPA provided a space for students to find passion within the arts and learn so many things, even with no prior experience at all. It would truly be a great shame if that opportunity was ever taken away from students. ”
Update: I am currently living in Japan as an English teacher on the JET Program. I will soon enter my 5th and final year on the program. It has always been my dream to live and teach in Japan and I believe it has been a great experience thus far.
Haleena Mora
Graduation year: 2019
AVPA School: Dance
Quote: “AVPA dance played a major role in who I am today. It taught me how to be more open minded working with others and incorporating new ideas. It also got me out of my shell as I was pretty shy, I ended up becoming President of the Dance program my senior year. I spent so much time after school figuring how to make the experience both enjoyable and where I could learn new skills. The program saw my blood sweat and tears for 4 years and I am extremely grateful for that.”
“It taught me how to manage my time and now be afraid to try new things. If you told me 10 years ago that I was dancing on stage, being President, and creating new dances I would have laughed. But, overall that process of being patient, understanding, and making sure I was taking care of my other responsibilities is what set the tone for my future education. There is no way that I would be where I am today without the skills I learned with AVPA.”
“The two weeks leading up to out shows each semester brought myself and the other dancers so much closer. We were so tired and delusional staying at school until 9pm sometimes. It was such a time to be alive and laugh and cry with my friends over something we worked so hard for.”
Update: Hello! I am 24 now and in my second semester of law school. In the past year I moved out to Boston to start law school, but have previously completed my Masters degree in Forensic Science and a Bachelor's degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice Studies as well!
Alex Dashwood
Graduation year: 2020
AVPA School: Film / Theatre Performance
Quote: “AVPA is where I met every one of my friends in high school. It allowed us to have a social space where we could thrive as creatives and learn important skills in communication and collaboration, skills that many of us had struggled with prior to joining the program. AVPA Film created a space where people with anxiety and difficulties socializing could be on equal footing, giving us a chance to be heard.”
“AVPA Film put me years ahead of my peers in film school. The amount that we learned (both technically and creatively) from Holly and guest speakers was instrumental, allowing me to get a job as cinematographer on a senior thesis film during my first month of college, a role that would rarely ever be trusted with an 18-year-old who hasn't even finished one university course.”
“AVPA would not be nearly as special without its faculty. Holly Gable taught me so much, not just about being a filmmaker, but also about being a strong leader. She's the reason my peers and I would ensure we were at film every week, rain or shine. The way that she taught and treated us like adults prepared me for college better than any other class I took (except maybe ICL with Dr. Pernoon). She knows how to connect with students and make them care about the subject, a trait that's so important in a teacher. I also wouldn't be where I am without Lee Hanson, who has a similar teaching style and trusts her students when they need it. In my junior year, she brought her theatre students over to film to audition for our shorts, and she led by example, auditioning for my first film. I cast her, and she trusted me enough to take the part and help bring a Sony film together. From then on, I knew she'd be leaving an impact on any kid that goes through the performance program at CCHS.”
Update: In the 6 years since I graduated from CCHS and AVPA Film, I:
Went to film school in Canada (Toronto Metropolitan University's RTA Media Production program)
Wrote and directed a musical short film "Back to the Closet" as my thesis (which screened at TIFF Next Wave, Hamilton Film Festival, Amsterdam New Cinema Festival, Sugar Loaf Film Festival etc. and has won awards for Best Screenplay, Best Comedy Film, Best Student Film, Best Music Composition, and Best of the Festival)
Directed a lifestyle television pilot "Barely Local" which aired on cable TV
DP'd and AC'd on various short films and pilots
AC'd on my first feature film "Demon House"
Produced and hosted an award winning radio program "For Ex-Sample"
Have done freelance commercials for Kraft-Heinz and CIBC
Worked as a freelance editor & colorist
Kenny Suleimanagich
Graduation year: 2008
AVPA School: Film
Quote: “AVPA Film was my entire purpose in life in high school. I looked forward to going every single day after school, and treasured my time there. I loved it so much, and devoted many free weekends and school breaks to making projects there.”
“I learned lighting and cinematography in classes and projects that the AVPA led. Furthermore, my knowledge of editing led me to some of my first paid jobs that stretched deep into my twenties - something i considered a secondary skill that I learned just because I wanted to do side projects at AVPA.”
“In 2006 or 07 I invited ASC Cinematographer David Mullen to speak to our class, and he held a multi-hour seminar about cinematography and his career. The room was silent the entire time as he spoke, arrested in awe. We also used to annually visit the (now late and lamented) Mole Richardson lighting company in Hollywood for a seminar on the basics of lighting, something I will never forget. The highlight of that entire time was doing the annual spring short film, which saw the entire AVPA Film dept get into action making a concerted effort towards presenting a completed film made to professional Hollywood standards and (at the time) shot on 16mm film, something many college students hardly ever get to do.”
Update: I can draw a direct line between AVPA Film and my current career as a commercial and motion picture cinematographer. I have shot major commercials and fashion campaigns, as well as a films presented by Werner Herzog at his annual award gala in Munich, and shown at Sundance, Tribeca, among other film festivals…. shot on 16mm just like I did in AVPA. I still have many useful friendships made in that program that I am regularly in touch with.
Bia Quintanilha
Graduation year: 2022
AVPA School: Dance
Quote: “Absolutely everything, it helped grow as a person, I only made friends due to the fact that I was in AVPA or my 4 years of high school would have been the absolute worst.”
“Every concert, backstage with the girls, tech week, no matter how many dances how stressed we might have been, CAROL and BETH knew how to also make sure we had fun and enjoyed it.”
Update: I graduated and it was because of AVPA DANCE that I had a dreaming of dancing in college. So I did, attended college dance major. Long Beach City College.
Piper Samuels
Graduation year: 2020
AVPA School: Technical Theatre (Live Events)
Quote: “AVPA was a space to have fun and relieve stress from the pressures of high school — fitting in, difficult classes, college applications. I learned so much from this program — not only from its incredible classes, but from watching my creative peers hard at work. Though I was in theater, I had friends in dance, film, art, etc — it was a genuine privilege to learn about their disciplines. The program opened my eyes to such fantastic works of art and potential career paths. AVPA was truly a community of passionate, kind, creative people and genuinely the best thing Culver City High School has to offer. It’s what made my high school experience more than just a typical public school experience.”
“In my senior year of high school, I took a playwriting class through AVPA and had so much fun that I decided to take another one in college. From there, I expanded into screenwriting and TV writing courses, and now, I am on the path to becoming a TV writer myself. As an assistant at WME, every day I work with writers, directors, producers, and showrunners, and I am eager to one day be in their shoes. I firmly believe I wouldn’t have discovered/honed this passion if not for AVPA — certainly not so early in life. The program also connected me with so many friends who helped inform my taste from an early age — showing me their favorite movies and songs and developing my sense of humor. Taste is everything in this industry and I am so grateful to have been exposed to such a wide variety of artwork/media at such a young age. Not everyone has that privilege, especially coming out of public school. I am one of the only assistants I know at WME who went to public school and AVPA is largely to thank for that. We cannot kill this program!!“
“Covid hit during my senior year, right as I was about to start rehearsals for my aforementioned play. The lockdown was devastating, and rehearsing this play over Zoom was one of the only things I had to look forward to every day. I wrote a comedic play about a faux-reality TV show, and every rehearsal I found myself almost crying from laughter. The cast was wholeheartedly committed to their performances, despite not getting a real live performance. It was empowering to hear my words read aloud and a perfect escape from the loneliness of being trapped in my bedroom. AVPA helped me keep hope alive during such a dark time!”
Update: I work in entertainment! I’m an assistant to a Scripted TV Agent at WME. I also majored in Media Studies and minored in Creative Writing at UC Berkeley.
Samantha Shanman
Graduation year: 2021
AVPA School: Visual Art
Quote: “AVPA was my gateway to the rest of my life. It gave me a space to learn, grow, and explore, and showed me that a career in art was possible. I met so many incredible friends, my world grew exponentially, and I found a true direction. I found a space where I was able to try and fail, connect me with resources that helped me daily in high school and beyond, and was probably the biggest factor in where I am now.”
“AVPA introduced me to programs like CSSSA and Ryman Arts, that allowed me to build a portfolio for college and beyond. Additionally, classes at West LA allowed me to build college credits and learn valuable skills that prepared me for my time in art school. CSSSA alone cemented what I wanted to do for college, giving me a glimpse of how special my future could be when I am surrounded by creatives. Ryman Arts helped me build incredible skills, and gave me a foundation I continue to grow on.“
“To this day, I think of the countless hours I spent with friends in the art room. The laughs, the late nights, the critiques, the safe space to grow and learn, the jokes, the hard work- it was the first time I felt how special it was to be fully surrounded by other artists.”
Update: I am currently working full time in animation as a Jr. background designer on Rick and Morty! I graduated from the School of Visual Arts in 2025 with a BFA in Illustration, and have lived full time in New York going on five years. Before landing this (dream) role, I was an intern at Nickelodeon Animation, and did 4 years as a sign artist at Trader Joe's.
Deven Raval
Graduation year: 2021
AVPA School: Music
Quote: “AVPA meant so much to me, it was a way for me to spend time with friends and learn valuable lessons that I still carry with me and use in my music work today.”
“Classes like jazz combo and music production were pivotal in the way that I learned how to play and crease the music I currently work on. It introduced me to new genres of music, had me practicing, and taught me new skills.”
“I remember still being active in our jazz combo during covid, recording each of our parts at home and slicing them together. That taught me a lot about the recording process of music and how I can make music remotely with different people.”
Update: Graduated from Loyola University New Orleans with a Music degree. Now mixing, recording, and producing my own as well as other artists music!
Benji Corburn
Graduation year: 2024
AVPA School: Music / Theatre, Live Events
Quote: “AVPA was a place where I could learn and grow as a "creative," learning what I liked and what I wanted to expand upon. I got the privilege of working with mentors in and outside of school, gaining knowledge and experience that I still use today. Through the program, I built lasting relationships, learned how to collaborate effectively, and developed leadership skills.”
“Going to college for Music Technology and Business, I already had hands-on experience in music and live events through AVPA. The program taught me the technical foundations of live-event production, from mic-ing actors for theatrical performances to setting up microphones for studio sessions and concerts. Being part of the program’s different “schools” also gave me a broader understanding of how each creative role contributes to the overall entertainment industry. Most importantly, AVPA provided a space to take risks, gain performance experience, and grow into a more well-rounded artist and collaborator.”
“One of my favorite memories from AVPA was performing in the pit orchestra for our production of Les Misérables. Coming from a background in acting and technical theater, this was my first time playing in a pit orchestra, which made the experience even more meaningful. The rehearsals were long and demanding, but there was something special about watching all the different elements come together. By opening night, seeing the full production come to life made all the hard work worth it. I felt incredibly proud and honored to have been part of such a powerful show and collaborative experience.”
Update: I’m currently attending New York University studying Music Technology and Business. On campus, I work at NYU’s Sports Broadcast department, where I assist with camera operations, play-by-play commentary, and overall broadcast production. Outside of school, I’ve had the opportunity to DJ at venues across New York City, including Webster Hall, House of Yes, The Virgo, and SOB's (Sounds of Brazil). I've also helped produce concerts and night-life events across NYC and it's been an exciting way to continue building experience in both the business & live-performance sides of the industry.
Ben Dashwood
Graduation year: 2022
AVPA School: Film
Quote: “AVPA gave me an avenue/excuse to make movies, which I probably wouldn’t have done otherwise. It also gave somewhat of a tutorial as to how things such as equipment rentals function. AVPA Film gave me the experience needed to immediately get on real productions.”
Update: I am now completing a bachelor’s degree in Film and Television at Sheridan College. Thanks to AVPA, I gained a head start in knowledge with the pre-production, production, and post-production processes.
Allegra Williams-Stirrat
Graduation year: 2008
AVPA School: Dance / Music, Theatre Performance
Quote: “AVPA was the place where I truly found myself as a performing artist. I found my strengths and I also found my tribe! It was a safe place for me and gave me an outlet to express my creativity, grow my craft and get to know myself, which can be very difficult at that age. It was the first time that I really felt a sense of belonging in school. People saw the good in me and they loved me for who I was (and I was a really silly and out there kiddo). That was the biggest thing for me because without that I wouldn’t be able to allow myself to be vulnerable in my craft as an artist. The professional rigor that AVPA offered challenged me to push my limits and nurtured the strength that I had in me to be the best that I could be, and I’m forever grateful!”
“AVPA taught me about the camaraderie of the performing arts community and how to find that for myself in college where I knew no one. It helped me know what to look for. AVPA also gave me the college level experience through the classes that were offered through SMC, the high production quality, and the standard at which my performance as a student was held, so that it wasn’t a shock when I was immersed in my college classes. I also highly observed my instructors… Cari-Ann Henderson, Lisa Michel, Tony Spano, Julie Carson, Darryl Hovis, Joseph Horn, Farhang Pernoon… and more!! I didn’t realize it at the time, but once I started directing, choreographing and teaching, I pulled so much from what I had observed as a student. I was a sponge, and having such incredibly dedicated and creative teachers who truly CARED for their students and the art they created together was inspirational and left a huge impact on my life as an artist and a teacher. I have so much gratitude for these people and what they instilled in me… and I know I wasn’t the easiest kid to teach!!!”
Update: Right after AVPA, I went on to get my degree in Musical Theatre. For the next 15 years I’d been co-running our family theatre program, dee-Lightful Productions, where I was directing/choreographing 4 musicals per year with kiddos here in Culver. Then went on to substitute teach and eventually landed my career in teaching full time as the theatre arts educator at Culver City Middle School, where I get to grow the program and collab with AVPA, a full circle and very rewarding experience. I’m finishing up my 3rd year and I couldn’t be happier! Throughout it all, I got married to my college sweetheart, and get to hit the road from time to time touring with him and his band around the world. We’re now settled in our first home as homebuyers here in LA with our 3 kitties and are going strong!
Patrick Gardner
Graduation year: 2015
AVPA School: Music
Quote: “AVPA gave me role models and allowed me to become a role model for others. I learned about creative and emotional maturity, empathy, and what it means to collaborate.”
“AVPA was the perfect environment for my curiosity in audio engineering and music production. No technical or creative questions were off limits, and there was an audience for everybody's ideas.”
Update: Began work as a freelance audio engineer and music producer after five years at Westlake Recording Studios.
Ginger Port
Graduation year: 2018
AVPA School: Film
Quote: “AVPA opened my eyes to how much I love cinematography and movies. It sparked my curiosity, gave me an excellent education in film production, and gave me the opportunity to be hands-on with equipment and on set at a young age. The experience was invaluable and shaped me into who I am today.”
“Going into Film school in college, I had a major leg up compared to most of my peers. I was able to show seniors a cinematography reel that I completed in high school and get chosen as the DP for many senior thesis films throughout college. Additionally, trying different roles on set in AVPA Allowed me to already have an understanding of what role I want to focus on in college and for a career. It also allowed a space to make mistakes, take risks, and become more confident as a person.”
Update: I’m a cinematographer and camera operator. I mostly work on YouTube videos for channels like MrBeast and BuzzFeed. I have had the honor to travel around the world for my cam op work with MrBeast. I have goals of DP’ing commercials, music videos, and feature films.
Haanzs Solognier
Graduation year: 2005
AVPA School: Music / Theatre Performance
Quote: “AVPA allowed me to broaden my musical talents and put them to good use at an early age. It definitely helped shape my future. I wish that this sort of program was available in more schools throughout the country, if not worldwide.”
“I honestly wouldn't have been been able to land such an amazing opportunity as I did, as it helped me strengthen my talent through years of hard work and dedication within AVPA.”
Update: After graduating CCHS and AVPA I enrolled at Cal State LA and then got an audition with Disney as a voice actor, which was only possible due to my previous vocal training I received with AVPA. I was able to do this for 16 years and I'm truly grateful. I've since opened 2 businesses, one of which I still have a contract with Disney, just on a different capacity.
Jack Galanty
Graduation year: 2018
AVPA School: Technical Theatre (Live Events)
Quote: “AVPA gave me the tools and experience to understand that there is a career trajectory for people that are into art and design, such as myself.”
“AVPA gave me amazing learning experiences for the technical design craft for prodcution and collaboration with others. ”
Update: I am still active in the Culver City community and biking around. I serve as Vice Chair for Culver City's Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee, which I first joined in 2017 when I was a student at Culver City High School.
From 2021 to 2025, I designed and installed the window displays and seasonal store decor at the Village Well Bookstore.
As of 2025, I serve as the Head of Technical Production & Event Design for Culver City PRIDE FESTIVAL. It's a rewarding experience and the AVPA theatre department gave me the skills and experience to execute a large scale event, such as Culver City PRIDE.
