Michael Brinkman was a leading figure in Hollywood’s broadcast and post production communities, and a founding member of the Hollywood Post Alliance. He spent 16 years with Panasonic and prior to that, was an award-winning producer/director working in documentary and educational production. Brinkman spent his professional life helping others understand technology in the service of the creative endeavor. In his memory the HPA hopes to continue his legacy to the industry and the people who choose to make it their career.
Winners were selected from a broad range of applicants, which included students and those already working in the post industry. Those recognized showed a commitment and talent that impressed the HPA Scholarship Committee.
This year’s winners are:
- Henry Alconz - Biola University student/assistant editor
- Lara Grant - apprentice film editor
- Guy Handelman - California State University, Northridge, student/personal assistant
- Brian Kahrs - project engineer
- Noemi Morales - editor
- Fernando Ramirez - California State University, Northridge, student/vault Librarian
- Stephan Vankov – UC San Diego student/composer
“We are pleased to acknowledge this year’s winners and are indebted to the generosity of HPA’s members and supporters for providing such an outstanding group of awards,” says Kathleen Milnes, chair of the HPA Scholarship Committee and president/CEO of The Entertainment Economy Institute.
This year’s Scholarship award winners receive one of the following: A scholarship award of up to $1,000; an Avid Xpress Pro film and video editing system; Sony Vegas 6 desktop editing software; Smartsound Sonicfire Pro soundtrack creation software; Registration to the 2006 HPA Technology Retreat; Registration to HPA Summer School 2005.
The J. Michael Brinkman Scholarship & Mentoring Fund program is in its second year and has seen a significant increase in interest, application and donor participation.
“In the tradition of Michael Brinkman himself, we are honored that we have the ability to recognize, reward and help further the careers of the next generation of our post production industry,” remarks Leon Silverman, president of HPA and president, Laser Pacific Media Corp.