The USC School of Dramatic Arts has greatly expanded its Board of Councilors this past academic year. Under the leadership of Dean David Bridel, 10 members who are leaders in the industry and the local community, and bring a breath of expertise and talents to the School, were welcomed to the board.

These new members join an already strong and impressive group of members, who now total 23. As the School continues to pursue new programming in areas like new media, industry relations and professional development, the board will have myriad opportunities to influence and add value.

As Dean Bridel notes, “I am grateful to have such an active and committed group of Board of Councilors who are energized by our new programming and eager to help us achieve our short and long term goals, with a particular emphasis around professional development. These new members have already provided a tremendous wealth of new ideas and connections that have strengthened our reach and visibility.”

Founded 26 years ago, the Board of Councilors at SDA provide advice and continued counsel on a variety of topics to help advance the mission and vision of the School.

The School would like to welcome the following new board of councilors members:

Chris Andrews, Talent Agent, CAA

Denise Chamian, Casting Director

Michael Chiklis, Actor, Director, Television Producer

Lori Furie, EVP of Sony Pictures Entertainment

Stacy Lederer, Community Leader

Alexander LoCasale, SDA Alumni Leadership Council Chair, Senior Vice President of Business Affairs for Gener8 Digital Media Services and SDA Alum

Dr. Steven Nagelberg, Managing Partner of Cambridge Medical Group

Byron Pollitt, Community Leader, Retired CFO and EVP of Visa Inc.

Noelle L. Wolf, Producer and SDA Alum

Warren Zavala, WME Partner

Original story appeared in the 2017-18 Callboard magazine. This web version has been updated to include more information.