Bios from Left to Right, Top to Bottom:

TAYLOR ELLISON, PRESIDENT CHAIR

Taylor Ellison is an Emmy Award–winning television host, producer, and meditationguide with more than a decade of on-air experience. Based in Austin, she created and executive produced Austin After Hours, a Lone Star Emmy–winning late-night entertainment show on CBS Austin. She was the former co-host of We Are Austin, a daily live lifestyle show, where she connected with viewers through inspiring interviews, uplifting stories, and community spotlights.

She has covered red carpets for E! News, hosted live at Formula 1, interviewed talent at press junkets from Los Angeles to New York, and produced and hosted a web series for Electrify News, among other creative ventures. She is currently developing a new television project that blends her passion for storytelling with her love of holistic living.

Outside of the studio, Taylor facilitates meditation classes and events throughout Austin. She also works one-on-one with clients, helping cultivate self-compassion and intentional living practices. Passionate about uplifting voices in the arts and media, Taylor serves on the boards of the Paramount Theatre and Women in Film & Television Austin. She also co-chaired the host committee for the ConnectHER Film Festival, an annual celebration of young female filmmakers.

You can follow Taylor on Instagram at @taylok, read her recent interview with Gary Clark Jr. and Nicole Trunfio for TRIBEZA, or revisit past seasons of Austin After Hours on YouTube. A proud Texas Longhorn, Taylor loves cheering on her alma mater, listening to live music, singing karaoke at Ego’s, enjoying margaritas on a sunny Austin patio and trying to help spread a little more joy.

Contact Taylor at president@wiftaustin.org

MELINDA MARROQUIN, CO VICE-PRESIDENT CHAIR

Melinda Marroquin is an award-winning filmmaker, director, and producer based in Austin, Texas. Born and raised in Mission, Texas, she was introduced to the world of film and theater at an early age. At just seven years old, she made her on-screen debut in the 1977 feature She Came to the Valley, sparking a lifelong passion for storytelling.

Throughout her early career, Marroquin appeared in numerous films (Wayne's World 2, Sister Act 2, Strange Days, The Newton Boys) and television movies (True Women, The People Next Door), but her transition behind the camera is where she truly found her voice. Working as a 2nd Assistant Director (Switch Up, Esther’s Diary, Secret at Arrow Lake, Missionary Man, Inspector Mom, The Insatiable) and
Production Coordinator (Circle of Pain, The Sno Cone Stand, Waking Dreams, Harvest of Redemption), she developed a deep understanding of the craft and production process—laying the groundwork for her emergence as a director.

A passionate advocate for women and Latinx voices in film, Marroquin is also an active member of the Austin Film Society, Austin/All Entertainment Business, and the National Association of Latino Independent Producers (NALIP). She frequently appears as a guest judge and panelist at festivals such as CineSol, Cine Las Americas, South Texas International Film Festival, and Ethereal Horror Fest. Marroquin currently has three original projects in development that she owns: a Vietnam war hero biopic, a historical limited television series set during the Mexican Revolution, and a hilarious, raunchy female-led feature comedy.

Contact Melinda at vicepresidentmelinda@wiftaustin.org

ALEXANDRA CHANDO, CO VICE-PRESIDENT CHAIR

Alexandra Chando is a director, producer, and Emmy-nominated actor with over 20 years of experience in television and film. She began her career as an actor, notably playing identical twins Sutton and Emma on ABC Family’s The Lying Game, where her interest in directing first took root. After the series, she shadowed directors on network shows, accumulating over 400 hours on set while continuing to act in pilots for NBC, The CW, FOX, and recurring roles on series like Amazon’s Sneaky Pete.

Chando’s feature directorial debut, The 8th Day—a female-led heist set in 1994 West Texas starring Phoebe Tonkin, Darren Mann, Mustafa Speaks, Valerie Mahaffey— premiered in March 2025 and is now available on demand. It marked her third collaboration with Duncan as director of photography. She is a 2022 alum of the Sony Pictures Television Diverse Directors Program.

As the Festival Manager of Mammoth Film FestivalTM and the Executive Director of HER VOICE, an initiative aiming to create accessibility and opportunities to emerging female filmmakers, Chando has immersed herself in filmmaking and is dedicated to making strides in gender parity. She is looking forward to continuing that passion with WIFT.

Chando also has long running experience as a host/emcee, and panel moderator (HollyShorts Film Festival, Soho House, The Honest Company, ATX Fest, Mammoth Film Festival, and more.

Contact Alexandra at vicepresidentalexandra@wiftaustin.org

KAMYA KANDHARI, SECRETARY CHAIR

Kamya Kandhari is a Creative Producer and storyteller with over a decade of experience in television, digital media, and global storytelling. She began her career as a News Producer at CNBC-TV18, where she crafted content for flagship business shows and editorial specials. Her passion for human-driven narratives led her into the reality space, producing for some of India’s most recognized formats, including Bigg Boss (also known as Big Brother) and TED Talks India.

After moving to the U.S.A., Kamya went on to produce hit unscripted series such as My 600-lb Life, Where Are They Now, Quarter Ton Teen, and a digital true-crime series, where she shaped compelling stories from development through delivery. Her work spans story development, field production, and post-production, and she has collaborated with leading networks and platforms, including TLC, A&E, Star TV, and Network18.

In 2022, Kamya was selected as a finalist for the Disney Entertainment Television Directing Program, where she was mentored by directors of Shark Tank and The Bachelor and shadowed Alex Van Wagner on ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition.

Alongside her industry work, Kamya is also developing independent projects, including short films and a podcast, through which she continues to explore inclusive narratives and underrepresented voices.

Contact Kamya at secretary@wiftaustin.org

DEB WILEY, TREASURER CHAIR

Deb Wiley is a seasoned tax preparer, business advisor, and accountant with deep roots in Austin’s film and production community.

Following her retirement from TaxTrailer, Deb continues to serve the community through leadership roles, including Treasurer on the boards of Women in Film and Television Austin, E4 Youth, and the Marathon Public Library.

She also volunteers with Foundation Communities’ Special Tax Services program, assisting low-income families during tax season.

Contact Deb at treasurer@wiftaustin.org

MARY HOWARD, MEMBERSHIP CHAIR

Mary Howard is an independent film producer with over a decade of experience in narrative short films and web-based series, primarily in the sci-fi, fantasy, and steampunk genres. With a strong foundation in production logistics, she has contributed to projects in roles ranging from producer to set PA.

Her work with Noble Knight Media includes the fantasy thriller The Failing Light, the retro-inspired sci-fi podcast Connie Cosmos, and the steampunk short Tea Time.

In addition to her production work, Mary has completed industry training through AEB, NYWIFT, WIFT Austin, and the Austin Film Society, with a focus in line producing, budgeting, sponsorship,
and independent distribution.

As a board member, she brings not only production expertise but also a strong commitment to fostering healthy, balanced working environments. She believes that caring for cast and crew—
both on and off set—is essen9al to sustainable film making and advocates for creative spaces
where people can thrive without sacrificing their well-being.

Contact Mary at membership@wiftaustin.org

 

JESSICA PIERRE'AUGUSTE, DEVELOPMENT CHAIR

Jessica Pierre’auguste is a multidisciplinary creative with expertise in design, digital marketing, and strategic communications for film and nonprofit organizations. She currently serves as Digital Marketing Supervisor at SISU Cinema Robotics, a motion control company supporting innovative productions in film, television, and commercial work. At SISU, she produces video content, develops marketing campaigns, and helps facilitate outreach programs that provide students and
underrepresented creatives with hands-on access to cinema robotics.

Her work has supported SISU’s involvement with productions such as The Last of Us, Tron: Ares, Cowboy Cartel, and Midnight in the Orange Grove, as well as activations at CineGear Expo in Los Angeles, BSC Expo in London, and IBC in Amsterdam. She has also contributed to community-centered projects with Texas A&M’s Performance, Visualization & Fine Arts department, UT athletics, and WiFT Austin’s own robotics training initiative.

Jessica brings extensive nonprofit experience to her role as Development Chair. As the founding Creative Director of Bates Mission, she has led fundraising campaigns, sponsor outreach, and digital communications to support young adults aging out of foster care. Her background also includes work in executive administration, operations, and education, giving her a broad base of skills in organization,
communication, and relationship-building. As Development Chair for WIFT Austin, Jessica is dedicated to growing the organization’s reach and resources through strategic fundraising while championing access and opportunity for women in film.

Contact Jessica at development@wiftaustin.org.

AMANDA STEWART, PROGRAMS CHAIR

Amanda Stewart's journey began in the heart of Los Angeles, where she dove headfirst into the world of filmmaking. From casting calls to post-production rooms, from gritty reality TV to big-budget blockbusters, she soaked up every bit of the industry — working alongside top talent on films like X-Men 3, Transformers, The Incredible Hulk, and Clash of the Titans.

Her career took her around the globe, but the biggest plot twist came when she met her husband and relocated to Austin. There, she shifted gears into the non-profit space while continuing to freelance in media production blending storytelling, strategy, and service.

But perhaps her most dynamic production to date? Raising five children, a role she proudly refers to as “Coordinator of Chaos.”

Today, Amanda brings her passion, precision, and people-first mindset to every project she touches whether she’s producing content, managing logistics, or simply keeping the wheels turning at home. Her work is grounded in empathy, trust, collaboration, and a healthy dose of humor. Because at the end of the day, she believes life, like film, is better when you’re having fun.

​Contact Amanda at programs@wiftaustin.org.

DANI DUDEK, MARKETING CHAIR

Dani Dudek is a weapon of mass creation who began her career in television as a Marketing Producer and Director. She worked at a number of top-rated stations in the Southeast (including WAGA FOX5 Atlanta and WBTV in Charlotte) before venturing to Austin to manage the marketing department at FOX7 (KTBC).

Her TV career culminated in a position as Affiliate Marketing Manager at the FOX network in LA, working as a liaison between the network and the FOX owned and operated stations around the country. TV shows she is proud to have helped launch and support include Brooklyn Nine-Nine, The X Factor, 24: Live Another Day, The Following, American Idol and more!

After 20 years and many more honors (including 12 Emmy nominations and fourEmmy Awards), she left the TV biz and returned to the ATX, shifting gears to focus onthe digital landscape. In addition to running Austin.com and multiple other mediabrands, she consults and manages social media and marketing for small businesses.

With her personal brand, Spill the ATX, she has been showcasing the best entertainment, travel and lifestyle content in Austin and beyond since 2008. Known as the "Master Tea Spiller," Dani brings a unique flair to her social media presence, engaging audiences with insightful commentary and trendsetting ideas. Her authentic voice and passionate storytelling have established her as a beloved talent in the online space, honored as a two-time Best Social Media Personality finalist by
the Austin Chronicle.

​Contact Dani at marketing@wiftaustin.org.

 

WHITNEY ROWLETT, EVENTS CHAIR

A long-time Austin resident, Whitney Rowlett is a VFX Producer for feature films, television,
corporate clients, and virtual reality experiences on behalf of major corporations including Sony, Netflix, Apple+, Camouflaj, Meta, Marvel, SyFy, Verizon, The Travel Channel, Comedy Central, NBC Universal, CBS, and Riot Games.

She was a member of the Academy Award winning art team on The Amazing Race, and wore several hats during production for The Lizzie Bennet Diaries and Emma Approved, both recipients of an Emmy for Original Interactive Programming. Whitney has produced Virtual Reality experiences for Kellogg’s, General Electric, Nokia, Jaunt Media, Camouflaj, Meta, and Google Spotlight Stories' "Help!", which
received two Digital Craft Lions at Cannes.

Whitney is currently serving as the Director of Programs for the Country Song and Dance Society, and has made teaching and performing historical dance – from the Renaissance through Regency - her passion for more than twenty years. Throughout her career, Whitney has developed dance programs at Living History sites, Renaissance Festivals, Conventions, and for stage productions and nonprofit
events around the world, and has recently founded her own dance performance group, Moonlight Dance.

Contact Whitney at events@wiftaustin.org.

JESSICA SLOAN, COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS CHAIR

Jessica Sloan is an experienced Austin industry professional with two decades in film and television.

She began her career interning at Austin Film Society, DetourFilm Productions, and Troublemaker Studios (where she was hired). Drawn to championing actors, she then worked in casting with Beth Sepko Lindsey and with Heather Collier at Collier Talent Agency, an experience that grew into nearly 17 years at Collier Talent. Today, Jessica leads First Take, a coaching company dedicated to helping actors treat their careers as the businesses they are.

As Community Partnerships Chair for Women in Film & Television Austin, her mission is to build high-value collaborations, open doors for members, and create sustainable opportunities that strengthen the WIFT community.

Contact Jessica at communitypartnerships@wiftaustin.org

TORI ROSE, BOARD SUPPORT CHAIR

Tori Rose is an experienced film and live event professional who works as a production designer/Art Director, actress and production assistant. She is a passionate and innovative art director with 5 years of experience in bringing creative visions to life across film, television, theater, and live events.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Southwestern University where she received the 2017 Laura Kuykendall Communication Student of the Year Award. Tori holds a Master of Arts from Texas State University in the same field with a focus on Qualitative and Rhetorical research in Critical Media Studies with a focus on film.

She co-authored an article called, "#RepresentationMatters on TV: A critical textual analysis of intersectional representation at work on NBC's Superstore," in the communication journal Feminist Media Studies. Representation is an important part of film making for her as watching her own identities in media spurred her love for the art form and inspired her to pursue a career in media production.

​Contact Tori at boardsupport@wiftaustin.org.

MEGAN MCCRARY, SOCIAL MEDIA CHAIR

Meagan McCrary is a 2021 graduate of The University of Texas at Austin, where she wrote her undergraduate thesis on the role of intimacy coordinators in theatre, film, and television. Since completing her formal training with IDC in 2022, she has worked professionally as an intimacy coordinator on a wide range of projects and continues to advocate for safe, collaborative, and consent-forward storytelling.

Beyond her on-set work, Meagan is an experienced producer and social media manager. She has served as the Social Media Manager for Women in Film & Television Austin since December 2023, leading digital campaigns and community-driven storytelling. She also manages social media for Aduro Studios, supporting Austin’s filmmaking community through creative digital content.
Meagan recently completed the Austin Film Society’s Creative Careers Program and is excited to continue contributing to the industry both behind the scenes and on set.

Contact Meagan at meagan.mccrary512@gmail.com