A program designed to build connections between students at all levels and the Hollywood writing community

Visiting Writers Program

Established by and named in honor of Professor John Furia Jr., The John Furia Visiting Writers Program connects film and television writers with speaking opportunities at colleges, universities, and K-12 learning institutions locally and worldwide.

The program’s mission is to give students firsthand insights into the craft, careers, and practices of the working writer in Hollywood.

Visits are typically one hour long and formatted as a moderated conversation or Q&A. The Writers Guild Foundation can arrange a virtual or in-person visit depending on the school’s location and the speaker’s availability.

Anthony Sparks with students at California State University, Northridge.

Andrew Rhymer and Jeff Chan sharing a presentation at Cal State University, Fullerton.

Matt Ross with students via Skype at Fitchburg State University.

Allan Heinberg with students via Google Hangout at Utah Valley University.

Meg LeFauve with students from California State University, Fullerton

Phil Johnston speaks to students at Cal State University, Fullerton.

How To Get Involved

For Schools & Universities

If you are an instructor or professor and would like to make use of the Visiting Writers Program, email Kira VandenBrande with details about your class to discuss further.

If you are a student, please consult with an instructor at your school or university and encourage them to reach out to WGF staff to schedule a visit.

For WGA Members

If you are a WGA member and would like to offer your expertise to students, email Kira VandenBrande to sign up as a speaker or click here to fill out our volunteer sign-up form.

Testimonials

Rich Fortinberry
Professor, Brooks Institute

“The Visiting Writers Program has greatly enhanced the writing curriculum at Brooks by giving students direct access to working writers. Students gain invaluable knowledge of the craft of screenwriting and personal insight into career building. The level of excitement and inspiration is palpable when one of the visiting writers visits the campus.”

Hrachuhi Utmazyan
Head of First Channel Media Academy in Armenia

The collaboration with the Visiting Writers Program has been a game-changer for our First Channel Media Academy. We were privileged to host two remarkable screenwriters who delivered fantastic online sessions for our screenwriting students. Their insights and experiences have profoundly enriched our curriculum, inspiring our students to pursue their creative aspirations with renewed enthusiasm and confidence. This program is a wonderful resource for fostering talent and creativity worldwide. Thank you!