Back in 2012, Dodge College lost one of its best and brightest students, Katie Weinstein (MFA/Film and Television Producing ’12).

Katie was loved by everyone due to her great smile and cheery disposition. She never wavered, and loved to share her happiness with others. She was also fantastic at what she did, taking on projects, and making sure they were the best that they could be.

She loved movies. Everyone she worked with spoke of her unparalleled work ethic, her willing to go the extra mile, her ability to take charge and get things done. “Did all of the work, and wanted none of the praise,” is how many of her classmates described her. She was selfless, and just wanted to lend an extra hand to the projects she believed in, often at the sake of letting her own work pile up and many sleepless nights.

James Brandenburg (MFA/Film Production ’11), one of Katie’s closest friends, once asked her why she was such a glutton for punishment.

Katie said: “Because they need my help. Because it’s the right thing to do. And because I like being the hero.”

She loved her fellow students, and she loved Dodge College. When she was suddenly taken from us, the entire school grieved her loss. It was felt by everyone. Understanding how deeply Katie felt about Dodge College, the family established the Katie Weinstein Memorial Thesis Scholarship Fund to assist students through their thesis projects.

Through the years, the award has helped many students complete their films, and keep the spirit of Katie alive. Candidates for it are first year graduate students in the producing program. They must have demonstrated excellence as a producer, going above and beyond expectations in the execution of their role. The purpose of this award is to provide the valuable resources needed to complete their thesis film project. The final decision for the award winner is provided by Katie Weinstein’s family.

This year, the Katie Weinstein Award was awarded to Alexandra Corvino (MFA/Film and Television Producing ’17). Katie’s sister, Megan, along with her parents, chose Corvino for her tireless work ethic. Megan actually reached out to Corvino herself to let her know she had won the award.

We congratulate Corvino, not just on her award, but on helping to keep the spirit of Katie Weinstein alive.