Leadership Announced for Academy’s 2026-2027 Committees and Affinity Groups

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has announced the newly appointed chairs and vice chairs for its 2026-2027 committees and affinity groups. These leaders will play a crucial role in advancing key initiatives, informing Academy policy and programs, and serving the interests of its membership.

As part of this announcement, the Academy has introduced the newly formed Academy Marquee Theater Committee, which will be co-chaired by Sean Baker, a four-time Oscar winner, and his wife, Samantha Quan, who is also an Oscar winner. This committee will review submissions and recommend theaters for inclusion on the Academy Marquee Theater List.

Awards Committees

The International Feature Film Executive Committee oversees the awards rules, submission requirements, and eligibility of the Oscars International Feature Film category. Co-chairs Michèle Ohayon and James Wilson will lead this committee in ensuring the integrity and excellence of this category.

The Short Films Qualifying Festivals Selection Committee determines festival eligibility criteria and reviews global applications to select which festivals and awards should be deemed Oscar-qualifying in the animated, documentary, and live-action short film categories. Chair Summer Joy Main-Muñoz will lead this committee in its efforts to support emerging filmmakers.

The Scientific and Technical Awards Executive Committee reviews submissions and makes recommendations for individuals and companies to receive Scientific and Technical Awards. Co-chairs Darin Grant and Rachel Rose will lead this committee in recognizing outstanding contributions to the scientific and technological advancements in filmmaking.

Membership Committees

Branch and Category Executive Committees oversee branch-and category-related business, including awards rules, eligibility, and the review of candidates considered for Academy membership. Chairs for these committees include Rita Wilson (Actors Branch Executive Committee), Marlon West (Animation Branch Executive Committee), and Kim Taylor-Coleman (Casting Directors Branch Executive Committee), among others.

The International Engagement Committee helps guide global Academy membership initiatives, promoting connectivity among members worldwide. Chair Peter Devlin will lead this committee in its efforts to foster global understanding and cooperation among Academy members.

The London Committee provides advice and guidance on UK member screenings and special events. Chair Maggie Todd will lead this committee in its efforts to support Academy members in the UK.

The New York Committee provides advice and guidance on New York member screenings and special events. Chair Mia Neal will lead this committee in its efforts to support Academy members in New York.

Membership Affinity Groups

Academy Affinity Groups bring together members from shared backgrounds and affinities, with a focus on underrepresented and marginalized communities. They offer guidance on membership, awards, and programming while fostering community and promoting networking and educational opportunities. Chairs for these groups include Stephanie Lowry (Asian Affinity Group), Taura Stinson (Black Caucus), and Howard Berger (Jewish Heritage Affinity Group), among others.

The Academy Affinity Groups are a vital part of the Academy’s efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the film industry. These groups provide a platform for members to connect, share their experiences, and work together to advance the interests of underrepresented communities.

Academy Foundation Committees

The Academy Museum Inclusion Advisory Committee helps to ensure the Academy Museum experience is inclusive for all visitors by bringing diverse perspectives to programmatic discussions. Chair Bird Runningwater will lead this committee in its efforts to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors.

The Student Academy Awards Executive Committee guides the direction of the Academy’s international college student filmmaking competition, including approving rules and setting standards for judging the films. Chair Brooke Breton will lead this committee in its efforts to support emerging filmmakers and promote excellence in student filmmaking.

The Nicholl Fellowships in Screenwriting Executive Committee reads finalist screenplays for the Academy’s international program that supports emerging screenwriters and selects the recipients of the annual fellowships. Chair Kim Taylor-Coleman will lead this committee in its efforts to support emerging screenwriters and promote excellence in screenwriting.

The Science and Technology Council helps to guide Academy initiatives connected to scientific and technological standards and developments in filmmaking. Chair Annie Chang will lead this committee in its efforts to promote innovation and excellence in filmmaking technology.