The event will take place on Friday, May 8, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at the UOG College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences Lecture Hall. Admission is free and open to the public, with limited seating available.

This year’s festival promises an engaging evening of original student films, featuring a diverse range of storytelling styles and genres. Films will compete in the following categories: documentary, short narrative, mini-narrative, mockumentary, twisted trailer, mood piece.

As the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences continues to support experiential learning and student creativity, the festival reflects the program’s commitment to developing real-world skills through hands-on projects.

Dean Sellmann of the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences noted that, “The Communication program in general and the film festival in particular prepare students for the transforming workforce because human communication and video production are two of the most basic workforce skills required for today’s marketplace. College film festivals build real‑world skills by simulating industry workflows, fostering collaboration, showcasing talent to professionals, and giving students practical experience in production, critique, networking, and public presentation.”

Beyond the screenings, the festival is designed as a vibrant community event, bringing together students, faculty, industry professionals, and the broader public to celebrate storytelling and media arts in Guam. Attendees can also enjoy a lively atmosphere featuring local vendors and raffle prizes, creating an engaging and interactive experience.

Guiding the creative direction and production of the films, faculty mentorship remains a key component of the festival’s success. "The films to be shown are the product of several classes, from our introductory Broadcast Production, through an intermediate Independent Narrative Filmmaking class, Documentary Class and a Senior capstone. Students and faculty interact to come up with and hone ideas for finished productions," stated Professor of Communication and Media Dr. Raymond Anderson.

In an effort to bridge the gap between secondary and higher education, this year’s festival is proud to feature a special guest screening from Rylan, a senior at Father Duenas Memorial School. Through this initiative, the University of Guam (UOG) aims to involve more high school students in its events, and local youth can look forward to a future Youth Film Festival.

Distinguished Panel of Judges

This year’s films will be evaluated by a panel of respected industry professionals:

• Keanno Fausto – UOG Communication Program alumnus and award-winning filmmaker
• CJ Ochoco – Producer and co-founder of Breaking Wave Theater Company
• Isaac Novilla – UOG Communication Program alumnus and Brand Coordinator at Docomo Pacific 

This event is organized by students enrolled in the CO460 Integrated Public Relations course, led by Dr. Millie Nice. The 11^th Annual UOG Film Festival Planning Committee includes the following students: Elyssa Kylee Vargas, Sophia Slomka, Noah Abrenilla, Ricci Fuellas, Elianna Mel Cuevas, Rachel Cabales, Danica Paige Tamondong, Monica Cosico, Christian Legaspi, Luke Johnson, Aidan Cacapit and Tim Sanchez.

The UOG Film Festival continues to serve as a platform for highlighting the creativity, technical skills, and storytelling abilities of students, while strengthening connections between the university and Guam’s vibrant creative community.

A Call for Community Support

Attending the film festival will not only support local students and filmmakers but also the greater island community. In light of the recent Super Typhoon Sinlaku, the UOG Film Festival would like to encourage community solidarity and gathering. In collaboration with UOG Endowment Foundation, monetary donations will be collected throughout the event as part relief efforts for Guam’s local and neighboring communities.

We are grateful for this year’s sponsors as this event would not be possible without them: The UOG President’s Office, UOG CLASS Dean’s Office, and Coast360.

Reserve your seat: https://uogfilmfest.squarespace.com/rsvp

Event Website: https://uogfilmfest.squarespace.com/

For more information, please visit our Instagram @uogfilmfestival or email Media Relations Lead Danica Tamondong at tamondongd14802@gotritons.uog.edu.