FEATURED EVENTS










Forgot your password? Click Here.
Not a member? Join Now!

Home > About > History

History

In 1979 a few women crossed paths, exchanged phone numbers and then decided to meet in a living room. Why? They wanted to fill a void. They needed an opportunity to network and exchange experiences with other women. Among the women involved in the first year were: Ginny Durrin, Judy Herbert, Sharon Ferguson, Christine Brim, Jan Hatcher, Norma Davidoff, Pat McMurray, Catherine Anderson, Lauren Versel, Michal Carr, Elise Reeder, and Polly Krieger.

Throughout the past 30 years, the organization has become a strong and formidable force in helping women break ground in the film and video industry within the Washington, DC area. The membership organization that started with 35 women has grown to more than 1,000 members.
 
From meetings and newsletters to salons and electronic membership discussion groups, WIFV continues to facilitate a constant exchange of information and networking opportunities for its members, who strive to help one another on their road to success.
 
Each year, dedicated teams of volunteers embark upon projects and take WIFV to new levels. Whether starting the day off with an Executive Breakfast or having a few martinis after work, WIFV members constantly show their dedication to this organization and their careers.
 
The following timeline illustrates how WIFV has grown through the years:
 
WIFV Newsletter (1979-present)
WIFV has always provided a member newsletter to keep its members on top of what is going on in the industry and the organization. This tool also highlights the successes of WIFV and its members.  In 2006, the newsletter went electronic and recent issues are archived on this site.
 
Wednesday One Monthly Membership Meetings (1979-present)
Education has always been a key part of WIFV. It has always offered monthly discussions that provide an opportunity for members to learn more about specific aspects of the media industry.
 
Screenings (1979-present)
Since the conception of WIFV, members have shared their work with others to gain feedback, word-of-mouth publicity, and support.
 
Women Make Movies Festival (1980-1994)
This festival was an annual international event spanning several days and including screenings, panel discussions, and parties.
 
WIFV Open House (1980s-present)
This is the annual kickoff to the new WIFV program year and a great opportunity to meet new members and reconnect with old friends. The Open House is followed by the annual membership meeting where members can find out the State of WIFV.
 
WIFV Holiday Party (1980s-present)
The holiday party is a multifaceted event that combines a holiday celebration, philanthropy, networking and an opportunity to revel in the successes of the past year.
 
Film Premieres (1980s-present)
The opportunity to see blockbuster and independent films before they are released to the public is a part of WIFV’s charm. Members are frequently given the opportunity to attend premiers and special screenings.
 
Professional Development Seminars (1983-present)
This is an in-depth weekend experience that allows members to take a look at specific industry topics with experts in the field.
 
WIFV Screenwriters' Discussion Group (1987-present)
The monthly workshop discussion group is a place where individuals can read works in progress and get feedback.
 
WIFV Membership Directory (1987-present)
This compact resource of members, their careers, their companies, and their contact information is an invaluable tool for the WIFV community.  In 2006, this resource went online at www.wifv.org.  This provides the members with a up-to-date resource when looking for the perfect colleague for collaboration.
 
WIFV Office Opens (1988-present)
WIFV hires full-time staff in 1988 and opens its first office. The location may have changed through the years, but the office remains the hub from which all events and volunteers are coordinated.
 
Executive Breakfasts & Salons (1993-present)
“The Executive Breakfast Program is a chance for executive members to see each other's work, learn from leaders in our field, and best of all share a lovely breakfast with their friends and colleagues.”
 
Women of Vision Awards (1994-present)
This annual celebration honors women who have excelled in their field and served their communities.  A list of past honorees is available on this website.
 
Women in Film & Television International (WIFTI) (1996-present)
WIFV joins the global network of 10,000 members in more than 35 chapters of Women in Film & Television. We are active members who enjoy the international connection to our sisters in filmmaking around the world.
 
WIFV.ORG Website Launched (1997-present)
WIFV launched its website to enhance its presence in the D.C. metro area. The website is the best conduit of information and opportunities for WIFV members and the community at large.
 
WIFV E-Mail Discussion List (1997-present)
This is an online discussion arena that allows for an educational exchange of information, specific job opportunities and advice.
 
WIFV Media Job Fair (1998-present)
The job fair is an annual opportunity for WIFV members to meet employers and discuss job possibilities.
 
Resume Swap (1998-present)
The Resume Swap was created in conjunction with the Job Fair to provide professionals and students an opportunity to gain feedback on their resumes from professionals in the field.
 
Image Makers (1998-present)
WIFV launched this program in 1998 to foster the next generation of filmmakers. WIFV pairs industry professionals with high school students to teach them how the film and video business works. Through hands-on experience, the students are taught how to produce by working on public service announcements for local charitable groups.
 
Randy Goldman Fund Scholarship (1999-present)
The Randy Goldman Fund was created by WIFV's Past Presidents, in memory of former WIFV president Randy Goldman. The Fund awards a scholarship to a WIFV member who demonstrates her commitment to continue to grow professionally. WIFV has partnered with The Workshops in Rockport, Maine, to provide this scholarship.
 
Kids World Film Festival (2002-present)
This film festival shares the joy of international film with local elementary school children. The program is accompanied by in-school media literacy training that is done in the schools prior to the festival to teach critical viewing skills and an appreciation of the wide range of media available today.
 
Martini Madness (2002-present)
This is an opportunity to mingle with professionals from various industries with a little fun. The evening includes martinis and hors d’oeuvres.
 
Brown Bag Lunches (2002-present)
WIFV hosts lunches for member companies and their employees to share what WIFV has to offer and increase our presence in the D.C. Metro area.
 
Creative Citizens Forum (2003-2004)
This program offers an opportunity for filmmakers to meet with our nation's lawmakers and engage in constructive discussions about the state of the industry and its future in our country.
 
Issue Forums (2005)
WIFV hosted a half-day seminar on Work/Life Balance to address an important issue that is affecting our industry. We plan to continue these forums to discuss issues that affect our careers, lives and livelihood.
 
Roundtable Groups (2005 to present)
Join a special interest group to connect with WIFV members on a smaller scale. These Roundtable Groups are open to all members.  Roundtable groups change over time and are directed by WIFV Members.
 
Exclusive Executive E-Mail Discussion List (2005 to present)
WIFV launches a new discussion list specifically for our more experienced members.

Fiscal Sponsorship (2010 to present)
WIFV serves as a fiscal sponsor for independent filmmakers to allow them to access funding from foundations and other donors.  Applications are accepted from WIFV Members only in the Spring and Fall. 
 
WIFV is constantly working on ways to enhance our benefits and educational programs. We look forward to adding to this list in the coming year.