On May 15, the DGA welcomed a new group of members from the MSNBC/NBC News Now team during an orientation event hosted in the Guild’s New York Boardroom. The event, held in two sessions, was designed to familiarize the members with the DGA’s operations and provide valuable insights into the long-standing history of the Guild.
Both sessions began with a welcome from Associate National Executive Director/Eastern Executive Director Neil Dudich, who introduced a screening of part one of Director Michael Stevens’ DGA 75th Anniversary film DGA Moments in Time, Part 1: 13 Men and $1300, which recalls the quest by Hollywood’s most influential Directors to achieve proper recognition and better creative and economic conditions, resulting in the creation of the Directors Guild in a story narrated by Director Steven Spielberg.
National Vice President Laura Belsey and Sixth Vice President Lily Olszewski spoke about the Guild’s rich legacy, shared information about the governance and committee structure of the Guild and emphasized the opportunities for member involvement. The DGA PAC’s legislative efforts to safeguard members’ rights were also highlighted.
DGA staff provided an overview of the National Board and Councils and a comprehensive summary of the resources available to members such as the Field Representatives. They also gave an explanation of the DGA’s contracting process and shared the extensive range of membership benefits and privileges including the pension and health plans, as well as a review of the responsibilities of DGA members.
The orientation concluded with a Q&A where the participants could their questions addressed by experienced members and DGA staff.
