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D.W. Moffett Honored with Governors Award at Southeast Emmy Awards

Celebration of excellence in film and television at the Governors Award Ceremony.

News Summary

D.W. Moffett, Film and Television Chair at SCAD, received the esteemed Governors Award at the Southeast Emmy Awards. His over 40 years in the industry have greatly influenced television and media. Recognized for his contributions as an actor, director, and educator, Moffett emphasizes student success and industry relevance in his curriculum. His leadership has shaped SCAD’s film program and expanded Savannah Film Studios, solidifying its role in the global education sector.

Atlanta, Georgia – D.W. Moffett, the Film and Television Chair at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), received the prestigious Governors Award during the 2025 Southeast Emmy Awards ceremony held on June 14, 2025. This award is recognized as the highest honor bestowed by the National Academy of Television, Arts and Sciences (NATAS) Southeast Chapter.

The Governors Award is presented to individuals or organizations that have made a substantial impact on the television and media industry. Moffett, with over 40 years of extensive experience as an actor, director, writer, and producer, has significantly shaped the landscape of this industry. His contributions have garnered him numerous accolades, including a Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Award for his role in the film Traffic and multiple nominations for the prestigious Joseph Jefferson Award.

Evelyn Mims, the President of the Southeast Chapter of NATAS, recognized Moffett as a transformative figure in the industry, highlighting his role as a pioneer who influences the future of television and media.

D.W. Moffett is known for his prominent roles in acclaimed television series such as Switched at Birth, Friday Night Lights, and Chicago Med. His most recent film appearances include Todd Haynes’ Oscar-nominated film May December and Paul Thomas Anderson’s upcoming project One Battle After Another, which features an impressive cast that includes Leonardo DiCaprio, Sean Penn, and Benicio del Toro.

Moffett, who joined SCAD in 2016 and became the chair of the program in 2017, expressed profound gratitude for receiving the Governors Award. He emphasized his commitment to storytelling and the importance of equipping students with the skills necessary for success in the film and television industry.

As the Chair of Film and Television at SCAD, Moffett has implemented a film curriculum that aligns with real-world industry standards. He has been influential in advocating for the expansion of SCAD’s Savannah Film Studios, which features an 11-acre backlot and two industry-ready sound stages. This expansion positions the facility as the largest film studio complex in higher education globally.

Moffett also emphasizes the necessity for faculty to remain engaged in professional practice, ensuring that students receive relevant instruction reflective of current industry trends. His engagement and leadership have played a vital role in enhancing educational experiences for students.

Andra Reeve-Rabb, the Dean of SCAD’s School of Film and Acting, commended Moffett for his ability to transform student projects into practical experiences within the Georgia film industry. Under his mentorship, many students have pursued successful careers in filmmaking, with some achieving recognition at prestigious awards, including the Emmys and Oscars.

D.W. Moffett’s distinguished career and commitment to his students were rightfully honored with the Governors Award during the Southeast Emmy Awards, marking a significant milestone in his ongoing influence in the film and television sector.