AES Good News |
They say good things come in threes! First, Tina Chapman DaCosta, director of Brick by Brick Theater reports they have finished their film “ Trusting Tommie.” It was filmed with 63 crew and cast members with 14 RIT students and alumni joining in with the main filming location in RIT’s new Performing Arts Building. Second, Chapman Dacosta came from behind the camera and was cast in the TV series Abilene, in the role of Bette, a no nonsense diner owner who makes the community’s well fare as well as the diner, her personal business. Filming took place in Rochester over the summer. Abilene is directed by Nick DiBella and Faith Street Films. Check out this link for more information. And third, Chapman DaCosta’s oldest son, Cannaday, who is a freelance illustrator, was selected by the United States Postal Service to create the 2026 Kwanzaa stamp in honor of the annual celebration. The first day of issue ceremony for the stamp was held last month.
Assistant Provost and AVP for Faculty Recruitment Torrence Sparkman, and Kendall Scott, director, Future Stewards Program are planning a trip to the University of New Mexico this month. Sparkman will focus on the topic of professional development and Scott will talk about RIT’s Future Stewards Program.
Both also plan to attend the American Indian Science and Engineering Society (AISES) National Conference in Portland, Oregon. Accompanying Scott will be 10 RIT students. The conference brings Indigenous STEM professionals and students together with a focus on educational and workforce development.