about us

WE, the students of Humboldt State University–have been inviting filmmakers (working in traditional, experimental, and non-traditional modes) to enter their film shorts into our festival since 1967 and that makes us the world’s oldest student-run film festival.

Our students judge the entries from September to March. The finalists then show for three evenings for our guest industry judges and local audience. The 57th Humboldt Int’l Film Festival will be held in person at the Historic Minor Theatre in Arcata, CA, almost every-year.

Our festival promotes the art of film, not only as a means of entertainment, but also as a vehicle for self-expression and a stimulus for dialogue about social, political and cultural issues. To dive into our extensive history check out the link below!

our mission

To create a space for independent filmmakers to express themselves, free from the censorship of mainstream media. The Humboldt International Film Festival is particularly aware of the power of short, independent film, and we seek those which inspire social and environmental change.

MEET THE TEAM

  • Adrian Anderson

    CO-DIRECTOR

    Adrian Anderson is a junior film major and cinephile, currently attending Cal Poly Humboldt. He has experience working as an Assistant Editor for Big Table Media in Sacramento, California and hopes to gain more experience on the programming side through his work with HIFF. He has a passion for all things related to film and hopes to one day operate his own independent film production company that produces feature-length films. He hopes to use the festival as a way to connect with fellow filmmakers on both a local and international level, as well as an opportunity to contribute to the legacy of a long-running institution.

  • TONI BROWN

    CO-DIRECTOR

    Toni is a first year post baccalaureate film student. With a master’s degree in fashion design and a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, her experience in the creative arts has laid the foundation for her current venture into digital filmmaking. Toni has discovered a new medium in film production, where she is able to weave her unique voice and perspective into her work, creating compelling stories that resonate with her audience. Beyond the lens, Toni embraces the joys of travel, photography, and spending time with family and friends. Toni is delighted and honored to be a part of HIFF History in its 57th year. This semester, she looks forward to watching short films, collaborating with the class, supporting HIFF’s efforts however she can, and seeing the event come to life.

  • Jared Benham

    CO-DIRECTOR

    Jared Benham is a senior at Cal Poly Humboldt majoring in Anthropology, and harbors a lifelong love for the art of film, a passion he dreams of exploring through the lens of cultural narratives. With a strong foundation in special-effects animation and experience as a co-director last semester, for Jared, the festival represents more than just a platform for personal advancement; it's an opportunity to engage with and celebrate the rich tapestry of global cultures and stories. Jared is excited about the prospect of meeting new artists, fostering collaborative relationships, and creating a space where the voices of underrepresented communities can be heard and appreciated.

Nicola Waugh

FESTIVAL FACULTY ADVISOR

Nicola Waugh is an independent producer, film programmer and communications expert working between Arcata, California and Calgary, Canada. She has produced several short and feature films including Events Transpiring Before, During, and After a High School Basketball Game, which premiered at the Vancouver International Film Festival and is currently streaming on major platforms in the US and Canada. Her recent feature documentary projects include Borrowed From Nature and Orphaned, produced for CBC Television. Nicola holds a Master's Degree in Communication and Culture from Toronto Metropolitan University, and has a background in film programming and criticism. She has worked with several film festivals and artist-run centres, including the Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers, Artifact Small Format Film Festival, Calgary Underground Film Festival, Calgary Cinematheque, Regent Park Film Festival, and Reel Asian Film Festival, and is the co-founder of the online film and media art publication LUMA Quarterly.