31 PRODUCER Project Manager SLS Productions Grand Rapids, Michigan After graduation, Evelyn was offered an Assistant Producer position on a few projects for SLS Productions, and after, was hired to be their Project Manager. She creates schedules, manages client communication, supervises equipment, and ensures every element of a shoot runs smoothly. Evelyn has also worked as the Co- Producer of the 2024 Summer Film, Pets. “Don’t undersell yourself. Be confident in your capabilities and never let anyone make you feel small.” EVELYN DENHAM Class of 2024 www.linkedin.com/in/evelyn- denham-477407248/ Class of 2014 Producer / Unit Production Manager / Owner Z-Marc Productions Chicago, Illinois Thomas relocated to Chicago in 2014, just one month after graduating from Grand Valley State University. He quickly immersed himself in the local film scene by volunteering at film festivals and contributing to independent film projects while balancing a full-time day job. In 2018, Thomas made his entry into television production with roles on Chicago Fire and Chicago Med. The following year, he secured his first full-time position as a Production Assistant on the award-winning series Empire. Since then, Thomas has built a strong résumé, working as a Production Assistant and Locations Assistant on several prominent, Chicago-based television shows, including Power Book IV: Force (Starz), The Big Leap (FX), The Bear (FX), Saturdays (Disney), and Dark Matter (Apple TV). His experience also extends to feature films, with credits on major productions such as The Batman (HBO Max) and The Killer (Netflix). Throughout his career, Thomas has held a variety of roles, including Production Assistant, Locations Assistant, Assistant Location Manager, Unit Production Manager, and Producer’s Assistant. In December 2024, he launched his own production company, Z-Marc Productions—an LGBTQIA+ led initiative dedicated to telling bold, authentic stories that center LGBTQIA+ and minority voices across Illinois and Michigan. THOMAS Z SEFFERNICK www.linkedin.com/in/ thomaszseffernick “Learn the different programs that are standard in the industry. This will give you a leg up in the industry when you graduate. Also, know when to say no to a project that you might not be comfortable with or just don’t have a passion for.”
