The Big Picture Awards presentation is a component of the 2009 Georgia BIG PICTURE Conference (GABPC).  The awards were developed to recognize the contributions of Georgia educators in film, television and theatre.  We accept nominations prior to our bi-annual conference to award one high school instructor, one college professor and one or more industry professionals who have demonstrated support of or participated in film/video production education.

The GABPC takes place at the Hotel Midtown Conference Center in Atlanta from April 17-19, 2009.  The Big Picture Awards will be presented at the GABPC Keynotes session featuring TV Producer Myrna Moore on Sunday, April 19, 2009 at 1:30pm.

2009 Big Picture Award Honorees

College Educator

Shane Toepfer

Georgia State University

High School Educator

Cheryl Benton
Brookwood High School

Industry Professional

Simon Kornblit

Former EVP Worldwide Marketing, Universal Pictures

Special Honoree

Governor Sonny Perdue

State of Georgia

 We also have a special award to be presented to Governor Sonny Perdue, whose passing of the 2008 revision of the Georgia Entertainment Industry Investment Act provides for a more structured and beneficial system of tax credits and incentives for filmmakers to bring their productions to Georgia.  Governor Perdue’s support of education is well known:  “Our best teachers do more than impart facts and figures – they inspire and encourage students and instill in a true desire to learn.  That’s a fine art in itself.”  Due to his very busy schedule, Governor Perdue will not be available to attend our program himself, but we’re pleased to announce that GREG TORRE from the Georgia Department of Economic Development, and who is the former Georgia Film Commissioner, will attend to receive the award on the Governor’s behalf.  Previous Big Picture Award winners include Nate Kohn of the University of Georgia, Bob Harter and Della Cole of Sketchworks Theatre, and Tyler Perry Studios.