Accomplished television director and filmmaker Rachel Raimist recently joined The University of Texas at Arlington as the Morgan Woodward Distinguished Professor of Film and Video in the Department of Art and Art History. An active director whose credits include Elsbeth, Bel-Air, The Spiderwick Chronicles, Sex/Life, Queen Sugar and numerous other television series, Raimist brings decades of experience in Hollywood and higher education to UTA.
As North Texas continues to expand its film and television industry, Raimist sees an opportunity to help students connect what they learn in the classroom with careers in filmmaking, television and digital media. She also hopes to build partnerships with the region's growing creative community while preparing students to thrive in an evolving industry.
Related: UTA names Hollywood director to film professorship
In this Q&A, Raimist discusses what drew her to UTA, how her work as an active television director shapes her teaching and what she hopes students take away from their time in her classroom.
What drew you to UTA, and what excites you most about joining the Department of Art and Art History at this point in your career?
Raimist: I value UTA's commitment to students, the energy of the Dallas–Fort Worth creative community and the momentum the university has right now. It feels like a place that's growing and evolving, and that's exciting to me. I am here to contribute my talent, insights and industry connections to the growth of the local creative community.
I'm especially excited about joining the Department of Art and Art History because of the opportunity to work with students who have diverse backgrounds and career goals. I love helping students discover their strengths, build confidence in their stories and hone their skills. It's especially fulfilling when I can help support new creatives and help connect what they're learning in the classroom to opportunities beyond campus.
