On May 8, new and veteran Associate Directors, Stage Managers and Production Associates gathered in the DGA’s New York boardroom to receive valuable information about the workings of their Guild during a Navigating the DGA orientation event. Hosted by the Eastern AD/SM/PA Council, the orientation was the opportunity for newer members to hear instructive and educational discussions about a variety of issues that affect AD/SM/PAs, delivered by Council members and DGA staff.
Following a welcome from Council Member/Former Chair Dennis W. Mazzocco, the reports included: Associate Eastern Executive Director Michael Berger on the organization of the Guild as well as the Pension and Health Plans and the rights of DGA members; Council Member April Smith on the history of the Guild; Council Member/DGA Assistant Secretary-Treasurer Joyce Thomas on governance of the Guild and its committees; Council Member Jeffrey Pearl on member privileges and benefits; Council Secretary-Treasurer Amanda Rodriguez on the responsibilities of DGA members; Council Member Terry Benson on the DGA PAC and how the PAC has been successful in its ongoing mission to fight for the rights of the Guild’s membership through legislative efforts; and DGA Communications Manager Becca Nadler gave the attendees a brief tour of the services available on the DGA website.
The orientation concluded with a Q&A session where the participants were able to have their questions addressed by experienced members and DGA staff. Afterwards, everyone was also invited to stay for the monthly Council meeting that followed.
About the Council:
The Eastern AD/SM/PA Council is the elected body that represents the Guild members who reside in the Eastern region and work in television as Associate Directors, Stage Managers or Production Associates.