2013 Governors Arts Awards

Arts Education
Award Recipient: Brian Chagnon, SAU 61 TV Studio Manager; Farmington, NH

An accomplished filmmaker, Brian has nurtured hundreds of students since he assumed responsibility for SAU 61’s education television station in 2008. Together with students, he has produced several important films and public service announcement features that address a range of issues facing middle and high school youth, including the importance of sportsmanship, the risks of substance abuse, the dangers of bullying, and how to cope with emotional loss. Brian has improved technology skills for teachers through numerous workshops and he conducts a very successful afterschool club for video and audio production, helping to inspire students from all backgrounds. His work has won him broad recognition from filmmakers, elected officials, parents and students.

As colleague Joshua Greenbaum commented in one of Brian’s many glowing letters of support, “Brian has worked to incorporate technology and film in all curriculums and grade levels in order to engage students in their learning. I have witnessed students who are otherwise challenging and unmotivated become inspired and enthusiastic under his tutelage. He is the pioneer of the award-winning Farmington Community Channel which airs school events, from sports to school board meetings; as well as student-made films and projects. He has become an integral part of the school community and has been essential in assisting in the integration of technology in the curriculum.”

Last updated: November 14, 2013