Our Mission

SIFF's mission is to create experiences that bring people together to discover extraordinary films from around the world. It is through the art of cinema that we foster a community that is more informed, aware, and alive.


About SIFF

Founded in 1976, SIFF creates experiences that bring people together to discover extraordinary films from around the world with the Seattle International Film Festival, SIFF Cinema and SIFF Education.

Recognized as one of the top film festivals in North America, the Seattle International Film Festival is the largest, most highly-attended film festival in the United States reaching more than 150,000 annually. The 25-day festival is renowned for its wide-ranging and eclectic programming presenting over 250 features and 150 short films from over 70 countries each year.

SIFF Cinema exhibits premiere theatrical engagements, repertory, classic, and revival film showings 365 days a year on four screens at the SIFF Film Center and the historic SIFF Cinema Uptown, reaching more than 100,000 attendees annually.

SIFF Education offers educational programs for all audiences serving more than 11,000 students and youth in the community with free programs each year.


SIFF Year-Round Staff

Deborah Person
Managing Director

Jodie Levey
Director of Operations

Nancy Kennedy
Director of Strategic Partnerships

Renee O'Donnell
Director of Individual Giving

Holden Payne
General Manager of Theatre Operations

Phoebe Hopkins
Special Events Manager

Tom Kozaczynski
Corporate Relations Manager

Kristine Towne
Information Systems Manager

Natalie Chhim
Development Coordinator

Catherine Muth
Financial Administrator

Lisa Brown
Volunteer / HR Coordinator

Brady Bekker
Community Relations Officer


Carl Spence
Artistic Director

Beth Barrett
Director of Programming

Jason Dittmer
Director of Marketing and Communications

Dustin Kaspar
Educational Programs Manager

Clinton McClung
SIFF Cinema Programmer

Sarah Loritz
Programming Coordinator

Arianne Garden Vazquez
Film Center Education Coordinator

Maria Rodriguez Abad
Marketing Manager