On May 5, Second Assistant Directors from the Eastern region came together for a half day of conversation and exploration when the Eastern AD/UPM Council’s Second AD Committee hosted their 11th annual Second AD Tea in the Guild’s New York offices. Under the clever title CommuniTEA, the event provided an opportunity for members of this category to discuss current topics that affect the 2nd AD community.
Following a welcome from 2nd AD Committee Co-Chair Steven Lafferty, DGA Assistant Executive Director Mary Hatch gave a brief production report on New York productions. Lafferty concluded the introductory segment by outlining how the day would proceed. The attendees then separated into breakout rooms for roundtable discussions.
The “Contracts” breakout room explored what members of this category need to know about the new DGA Contract during a discussion moderated by 2nd AD Committee members Joy Kim-Crilley, Jack McKenna and Sussan Cordero with the assistance of DGA Contracts Coordinator Maura De Rose and Business Representative Michael Mintz.
The “Networking” room attendees took part in a discussion moderated by Committee Secretary Alana Bonilla and members Dan Ogorzalek and Matt O’Shea that explored the art of networking and included what 2nd ADs might want to request for their next contract.
There was also a breakout room with former 2nd AD Committee Co-Chair Dana Zolli, who shared her path to AUPM and answered members questions about taking their careers in that direction.
The event concluded with the breakout groups reassembling for a wrap-up session with closing remarks by Lafferty.
About the Committee
The Eastern AD/UPM Council Second Assistant Directors Committee addresses issues that concern the members of this category and encourages dialogue amongst members in an effort to bring awareness, devise solutions to problems and continue education and growth. The Committee is co-chaired by Anastasia Folorunso and Steven Lafferty with Secretary Alana Bonilla. The members are Vince Brown, Sussan Cordero, Pam Giangreco, Jake Grubb, Rachel Jaros, Felix Jordan, Joy Kim-Crilley, Cary Lee, Dan Majkut, Jack McKenna, Jason Messeri, Dan Ogorzalek, Matthew O’Shea, Nicole Payson, Kristina Peterson, Michael Reichman and Jeff Sedwick.