Small fest. Big films.
Our Mission
The Orcas Island Film Festival celebrates and promotes the art of cinema as a catalyst for connection, creativity, and cultural understanding.
We are dedicated to amplifying diverse voices, inspiring critical thought, and bringing communities together through the transformative power of storytelling.
Our Story
The festival was co-founded by Carl Spence, Jared Lovejoy and founding board president Donna Laslo, and presented its first edition in October 2014 to much appreciation and success.
Since then, OIFF has earned praise from film and arts critics, honored emerging filmmakers with the Vanguard Award, and expanded its programming throughout the year leading up to the festival.
In 2023, USA TODAY recognized OIFF as one of the Top 10 Film Festivals in the United States.
This achievement is the result of the dedication and vision of the sustaining team for the past 11 years— Carl Spence, Donna Laslo, Jeanne Beck, and Cheryl Kummer—together with the generous support of countless individuals, donors, and local businesses who helped nurture the dream into reality.
We look forward to welcoming you to the festival and sharing the magic of cinema with you on Orcas Island.
Our team
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Carl Spence
Co-Director + Chief Curator + Board Member
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Donna Laslo
Co-Director + Co-Producer + Board Member
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Jeanne Beck
Sponsorship Director + Volunteer Coordinator + Board Member
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Libi Geddes
Board Member
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Dwight Wheaton
Board Member
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Janet Brownell
Board Member
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Demian Rosenblatt
Art Director
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Sarah Shaefer
Artists Relations
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Erica Hanson
Volunteer Coordinator
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Michael Yeaman
Classic Film Curator
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Galen Forrest
Digital Designer
Our sponsors
Film is a collaborative medium. Organizing a film festival is as well,
and we could not do it without our sponsors.
For their contributions and kindness, we are eternally grateful.
Presenting level
Platinum level
Gold level
Silver level
