The Midwest Film Festival (MFF) has officially announced NK Gutiérrez as its new Executive Director, succeeding Erica Duffy effective December 2024.
Gutiérrez, who has served as the festival’s Operations Director since November 2023, brings a wealth of experience and a fresh vision to the organization. During her tenure as Operations Director, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and a deep understanding of the Midwest film community. Her strategic approach to festival operations, unwavering commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility initiatives, and dedication to supporting regional filmmakers has earned her widespread respect among industry professionals and community members alike. She has been particularly instrumental in expanding the festival’s outreach to underrepresented voices and creating more inclusive programming opportunities.
“Collaborating with NK over the past year has been an inspiring journey of mentorship, teamwork, and shared goals,” said outgoing Executive Director Erica Duffy. “Together, we’ve shaped a forward-thinking vision for the festival. When I took on the challenge of rebuilding MFF in 2019, I made a promise to ensure its sustainability. Today, I am proud to say the festival is thriving, and I can’t think of anyone better than NK to lead us into this next phase. Her deep understanding of our mission, coupled with her innovative ideas and genuine dedication to the community, makes this transition a milestone in MFF’s evolution.”
Under Gutiérrez’s leadership, MFF is set to introduce several new initiatives in 2025. These include a streamlined submission process concentrated within a three-month window (November 1, 2024 – February 28, 2025) via FilmFreeway to enhance programming strategy and efficiency.
The festival is expanding its reach through roadshow screenings across the Midwest region and establishing a new presence at The Claudia Cassidy Theater in the Chicago Cultural Center. In partnership with The Chicago Film Office, select screenings will be offered free of charge to increase accessibility for our community.
The festival will also present an exciting lineup of themed events, including:
- Invisible Ties: Celebrating the Profound Bonds That Shape Us
- Reimagined Midwest: A New Lens on the Heartland
- Adcomm Night: Showcasing the Brilliance of the Advertising Industry (Midwest Film Festival’s 10th annual Advertising Community Night!)
- Global Kaleidoscope Night: Exploring Cultural Diversity Through Film
- Emerging Filmmakers Night: 10 Films from the Rising Stars of Midwest Filmmaking
- Feature Films: All genres
“As we approach MFF’s 20th anniversary, I’m honored to build on the strong foundation Erica Duffy has established,” said Gutiérrez. “This festival is more than a film showcase—it’s a space to connect, empower, and celebrate our region’s diverse storytellers. I’m excited to expand its reach and create an inclusive community that supports the whole creative spirit—body, mind, and soul.”
NK Gutiérrez steps into her new role at a pivotal time for the festival, as it continues to grow its influence in the film industry while maintaining its commitment to supporting and showcasing Midwest talent.
“NK’s deep understanding of our artistic mission from working alongside Erica Duffy and her vision for expanding the breadth and depth of our reach make her the perfect choice to lead MFF into its next chapter,” says Tony Scott-Green, Board President of the Midwest Film Festival. “Her vision for festival expansion and proven track record of innovation align perfectly with our long-term goals and commitment to deepening our core values of community and inclusivity. We are confident that under NK’s leadership, the festival will continue to grow its impact and significance in the Midwest film community.”
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