Wendy Eley Jackson – MFA, Filmmaker & Westmont College Faculty
My annual Black History Month is launched for 2025 with Wendy Eley Jackson MFA; a filmmaker, TV Director/Producer, and college faculty. She is the Founder and Executive Producer of Auburn Avenue Films with 30 plus years of television broadcasting and film experience in the industry.
Jackson’s TV/Film work spans SONY Pictures TV, Turner Broadcasting, and the role of producer for the award-winning feature length documentary, MAYNARD on Netflix, directed by Sam Pollard. As a writer her works include co-writer on the feature film, 30 Days A Black Man – an adaptation of the award-winning novel, 30 Days A Black Man: The Forgotten Story of Jim Crow by Bill Steigerwald – and writing two feature films for Hallmark Channel’s new banner, Mahogany. She holds an MFA in screenwriting from the University of Georgia, and a BA in English Literature from UC Berkeley.
At Westmont College in Montecito, she is the Resident Artist/Scholar for Justice, Reconciliation, and Diversity, and Adjunct Professor in Theatre Arts. She is also a lecturer at UC Santa Barbara where she teaches basic and advanced screenwriting for television, contemporary screenwriters, creative writing, and film as literature.
I met with Jackson at her Westmont College office last week. She shared that she grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, with her father originally from NYC. She has been in our town since 2019 with her husband Maynard Holbrook Jackson, III and two children, Amber and Joshua.
Jackson has a wealth of experience in the arts and in living Black History. Here is our interview in her words:
Jackson, “Thank you for these thoughtful questions. It is always a privilege to share a space where we uplift, celebrate, and honor Black history – not just in February, but every single day. Our history is rich, our stories are necessary, and our presence in every space is vital.”
Q. What message is relevant/of importance for Black History Month 2025?
A. The theme I feel is most relevant for Black History Month 2025 is “The Power of Legacy: Honoring Our Past, Shaping Our Future.” It is a reminder that we are standing on the shoulders of those who fought for justice, equality, and the right to tell our own stories. We are also responsible for shaping what comes next. Our history is not static—it is alive, evolving, and ever-expanding. We must continue the work of our ancestors by investing in our communities, telling our stories authentically, and ensuring that the next generation has more opportunities than the last.”
How do you recommend people and students become involved in celebrating Black History, and especially during Black History Month?
Engagement starts with education but should lead to action. I encourage students to:
– Learn beyond the classroom – read books by Black authors, watch films made by Black creatives, and support Black artists.
– Attend community events – historical lectures, screenings, exhibits, and panel discussions that elevate Black voices.
– Get involved – volunteer with Black-led organizations, mentor younger students, or participate in initiatives that promote racial equity.
– Create – whether through writing, filmmaking, music, or activism, use your unique talents to contribute to the ongoing narrative of Black excellence.
What/who inspired you to work in the TV/Film industry?
I was deeply inspired by my love for storytelling, but my journey was profoundly shaped by the work of Ava DuVernay, Julie Dash, Sam Pollard, Oprah Winfrey, Lena Waithe, Gordon Parks, and Spike Lee. They proved that our stories deserve to be told with depth, nuance, and authenticity. I was also motivated by my own family’s legacy—stories passed down about resilience, love, and triumph against the odds.
What contributions to that industry are you most proud of?
I am most proud of creating and producing films that challenge narratives, shift perspectives, and amplify underrepresented voices. My work as a documentarian has allowed me to shine a light on critical social issues, from civil rights to biopics of incredible men and women that have shaped the world. I am also incredibly honored to be in a position where I mentor and teach the next generation of storytellers, ensuring that the industry continues to evolve in a way that is more inclusive and representative of our communities.
Do you feel supported and empowered in this role?
As a Black woman in film and academia, I have had moments of immense support and moments where I had to fight to be heard. But I have always been empowered by my purpose – to tell stories that matter. I find strength in the community of other Black creatives, scholars, and activists who continue to uplift each other and demand change in these spaces.
What are your current TV/Film projects, screenings, etc. for 2025 – spoiler alerts?
I am incredibly excited about my documentary Facing the Falls, now available on YouTube Premium, which was highlighted on Morning Joe with Chelsea Clinton as our Executive Producer. I am also developing a feature film on the life of Ella Fitzgerald, exploring her triumphs and challenges in the face of racial discrimination, and I am producing the upcoming feature film California Skate, formerly Seventies Roller Disco Movie. There are a few more projects in the works, but let’s just say 2025 will be an exciting year for storytelling!
How did your position at Westmont College come about?
Teaching is another form of activism. My role at Westmont College came about through my deep commitment to educating the next generation of writers, thinkers, and creatives. I wanted to create a space where students could explore storytelling as a tool for social change. I also saw an opportunity to build bridges between academia and the entertainment industry, ensuring that students from all backgrounds have access to meaningful opportunities.
What do you do daily to stay at your best self and accomplish your goals/dreams?
I start every day with gratitude and intention. I read, I write, and I surround myself with people who pour into me as much as I pour into them. I also remind myself that rest is part of the process – Black women carry so much, and we must also prioritize self-care.
What is the coolest part of your profession?
The coolest part of my profession is witnessing the power of storytelling. Seeing a student find their voice, watching an audience moved to action after a screening, or knowing that a film I produced is making a difference – those moments remind me why I do this work.
Any talking points you wish to add that we may have missed in this interview?
Yes, I would love to emphasize that our stories matter, our voices matter, and our impact is limitless. Black History Month is not just about remembering the past – it’s about continuing the fight, honoring the progress, and making space for the future. We are the storytellers of today, the changemakers of tomorrow, and the architects of our own legacies.
Thank you for this interview, Joanne. Let’s keep creating, inspiring, and moving forward together.”
411: www.auburnavenuefilms.com; www.westmont.edu/people/wendy-jackson-mfa;
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