The Tisch School of the Arts (TSOA) at New York University has announced that it has received a gift of over $100,000 for the establishment of the Tom Drysdale Production Fund to support student projects in the Department of Photography and Imaging in TSOA’s Kanbar Institute of Film and Television. The Production Fund is named in honor of professor Tom Drysdale, who has taught in the Division of Film and Television since 1973 and who served as the founding chair of the Department of Photography and Imaging from 1982-1995. TSOA alumnus Tony Jaffe ‘85 had the idea for the Fund and is its principle contributor.
“It is gratifying when a graduate steps forward and asks to honor one of his teachers, one who made a difference to him while a student at the Tisch School of the Arts,” said Mary Schmidt Campbell, dean of the Tisch School and associate provost for the arts at NYU. “Tony Jaffe’s gift not only will serve as a wonderful tribute to an outstanding faculty member, but it will stand as a lasting contribution to future generations of Tisch students. We are grateful for his support, as well as the support of the numerous alumni and parents of students who so generously contributed to the Tom Drysdale Fund.”
The Tom Drysdale Production Fund will help outstanding students in the Department of Photography & Imaging to complete creative or research projects. Grants will be awarded each year through a competitive process by an independent committee appointed by the Department. Juniors and seniors who have completed their foundation studies will be eligible to apply.
“When Tony first shared his intentions about naming the Fund, I was surprised, embarrassed, and obviously deeply touched,” said Drysdale. “I’m particularly pleased that this provides for the recognition and completion of strong student work and that all juniors and seniors in the Department are eligible to apply for support. Alumni are contributing in so many valuable ways, presenting to classes, helping emerging graduates with career counseling and employment opportunities, and generally inspiring us with their accomplishments. They are setting a wonderful example for future generations of alumni.”
“We wanted to acknowledge faculty who were such an important part of our college experience, while also providing some financial help to students, something that we as students wished for when we were in school,” said Jaffe. “I hope others will want to participate, and that this fund will grow to be able to help even more students in the future.”