Obryan Roach (L) and Christ Villalona talk to attendees at the NYCPS Film Festival Expo.
Queens, N.Y. – On April 29th, three students from the Truman Media Program took center stage at the NYC Public Schools Film Festival, held at the American Museum of the Moving Image in Queens. The event brought together student filmmakers, educators, and families to celebrate creative excellence in media arts across the city.
Representing Truman were sophomore Christ Villalona, junior Obryan Roach, and senior Delaughn Francois, who hosted a table at the festival’s Media Expo. Their mission: introduce middle school students and their families to the wide range of opportunities available through Truman’s Media Communications Program.
“I really enjoyed getting to talk to younger students about what we do,” said Delaughn Francois, “A lot of them had never seen behind-the-scenes work before, and it felt great to show them what’s possible.”
The day began with a welcome address from Chancellor Melissa Aviles-Ramos, emphasizing the importance of media literacy and student voice in today’s world. Following the screenings and exhibitions, Truman’s own Mr. Roush participated in a special educator panel, where five film and media teachers from across NYC shared insights on how students can pursue media arts in high school and beyond.
“It was an honor to speak alongside colleagues who are all innovating in their own schools,” said Mr. Roush. “Our students have powerful stories to tell, and it’s our job to make sure they have the tools—and the platform—to do it.”
Truman High School is proud of Christ, Obryan, and Delaughn for representing our school community with passion, professionalism, and Mustang pride. The future of media is bright—and it’s being made right here in the Bronx.