Erica Deiparine-Sugars has dedicated over 20 years to working with independent media makers and media arts communities, championing diverse voices and storytelling.  As the former Senior Director of Programs at Austin Film Society, she led filmmaker grants, artist development initiatives, and fostered industry partnership.  Prior to AFS, Erica was the Managing Director of Programming and Production at ITVS, supporting independently produced documentaries for public media.  Erica has participated on funding panels and film juries for regional and national film festivals and organizations.