photos by Marcie Revens
On September 14, new and veteran Associate Directors, Stage Managers and Production Associates gathered both online and 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 Chair Erika Wortham, the reports included: an overview of the workings of Council from Associate National Board Member Glenna Meeks; a review on the history of the Guild from Council Member Dennis W. Mazzocco; Council Second Vice Chair Amanda Louise Rodriguez on the Guild’s leadership, national committees and staff; Associate Eastern Executive Director Michael Berger on how the Guild’s contracts and staff work to protect the membership; Field Representative Meghan Brophy led a “Know Your Rights” primer and information on the responsibilities of DGA members; and Council Member Terry Benson on the Directors Guild Foundation’s ongoing mission to assist DGA members in need, the DGA PAC and its ongoing fight for the Guild’s membership through legislative efforts, and information about the benefits from the DGA-Producer Pension and Health Plans.
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.
