BEST OF FESTIVAL
Six standout films are in the running for our 2025 Best of Festival Award. Our panel of judges will decide the winner, revealed in a special announcement at the festival’s finale.
Director: Baz Sells
Director: Lisa Ott
Director: Sara Werner
Directors: Rivkah Beth Medow, Jen Rainin
Director: Wes Hurley
Director: Zac Hug
Our jury is made up of six extraordinary individuals who know this festival inside and out. As former Directors and long-time Steering Committee Members, they bring years of experience, passion, and dedication to celebrating LGBTQ+ cinema.
ROYCE COLE JR
Served as Director of the Festival in 2010 and as a member of the Festival Steering Committee from 2004 to 2024. Throughout nearly two decades of involvement, Royce played a pivotal role in fundraising and was instrumental in expanding the festival’s reach and impact.
JUDGES
PAM POWELL
A founding member, Pam served as Director from 2002 to 2007 and Co-Director in 2008. From 2001 to 2021, Pam was a dedicated member of the Steering Committee. As one of the festival’s earliest leaders, Pam helped shape its vision and also recounted its beginnings, writing a remarkable oral history of the festival’s first decade.
MARK HARPER
Served on the Festival Steering Committee from 2006 to 2007, became Co-Director in 2008, and Director in 2009. Known for his deep insight into film, Mark continued his passion for cinema in the English Department at IUPUI and currently as an Associate Professor of Film Studies at Heartland Community College.
KEISHANA VAZQUEZ WHITE-HICKS
Served on the Steering Committee from 2010 to 2021 and was Co-Director in 2012. Keishana initiated key fundraising efforts and as our longtime box office manager, she welcomed audiences year after year, bringing joy to the community. She also helped create—and memorably wore—our beloved Poppy mascot costume.
KAT HICKS
Served on the Festival Steering Committee from 2010 to 2021. Known for their creativity and vision, Kat brought forward innovative ideas—many of which were put directly into action—helping the festival grow in fresh and exciting ways.