The American Film Institute (AFI) awarded honorary Doctorates of Fine Arts degrees to acclaimed actress and producer Viola Davis and legendary film editor and sound designer Walter Murch during the AFI Conservatory’s Class of 2025 commencement ceremony on August 8 at the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood. This milestone acknowledged their distinguished contributions to the art of cinema, highlighting the significance of their work within the film and entertainment industries.
Graduates Mark Completion of Rigorous MFA Program
The ceremony also recognized the achievements of 143 graduating filmmakers who have completed AFI’s intensive two-year MFA program. These graduates specialized in six key disciplines: Cinematography, Directing, Editing, Producing, Production Design, and Screenwriting. Their collaborative efforts resulted in the creation of projects equivalent to ten feature films. The Class of 2025 is noted for its diversity, with 52% female filmmakers, 20% domestic Fellows of color, and 52% international Fellows, reflecting AFI’s commitment to fostering inclusivity within the film community.
Introductions from Acclaimed Industry Figures
Viola Davis was introduced on stage by award-winning filmmaker Gina Prince-Bythewood, who herself has been recognized within the film community. Walter Murch received his introduction from Caleb Deschanel, an Academy Award®-nominated cinematographer and AFI alumnus from the Class of 1969. These presentations underscored the respect and admiration held for both honorees within the professional creative community.
Inspirational Messages from Davis and Murch
Upon receiving her AFI honorary degree, Viola Davis delivered a moving reflection to the graduating class, emphasizing the transformative power of storytelling in their careers. She said,
You have the power to come home to that one thing that made you want to do this. To be healers, to be alchemists, to buck the system, to see life just a little bit different, and therefore you don’t just leave something for people. You leave something in them.
—Viola Davis, Actress and Producer
Walter Murch encouraged the graduates to embrace boldness as they move forward into their careers. He shared,
When thinking about the future, it occasionally pays to be unreasonably bold.
—Walter Murch, Film Editor and Sound Designer
Honorees Join Prestigious Circle of AFI Alumni
The inclusion of Davis and Murch adds to an illustrious list of past recipients of AFI honorary doctorates, which boasts legendary figures such as Maya Angelou, Clint Eastwood, Spike Lee, Jodie Foster, Angela Bassett, Mel Brooks, Carol Burnett, and Quentin Tarantino. This tradition honors individuals who have made significant cinematic and cultural impacts, reinforcing the importance of their artistic contributions to audiences worldwide.
AFI Leadership Recognizes Graduates’ Achievements
Following the award presentations, Susan Ruskin, dean of the AFI Conservatory and executive vice president of the institute, addressed the Class of 2025. She celebrated their dedication and creativity throughout their studies, stating,
Today, you are no longer just Fellows–you are now alumni of this great institution. You join a community of artists across the globe who are finding their purpose in their own work, every day.
—Susan Ruskin, Dean, AFI Conservatory
Class Representative Emphasizes Responsibility of Storytelling
Kirby Saxton, speaking on behalf of the graduates, conveyed the weight of responsibility that accompanies their role as future storytellers. He declared,
I’m told that we are the future of the medium. If that’s true, then it’s our obligation to be true human beings. To show courage in these hard times. The courage to tell the stories that we have in our hearts.
—Kirby Saxton, Class Representative
AFI Programs Showcase Emerging Talent After Commencement
In addition to the commencement, AFI is hosting a series of industry spotlights to highlight the work of the newly minted graduates as part of its Bridge to the Future initiative for Conservatory alumni. The Cinematography Spotlight, scheduled for August 9, features a selection of three-minute films all captured on motion picture film by AFI Fellows. The Directing Spotlight will take place in October during AFI Fest at the TCL Chinese Theatre. Earlier in the week, the Production Design Spotlight was held on the AFI campus, with further discipline spotlights to be announced, providing opportunities for graduates to display their artistry and gain industry attention.
