Emerson College Welcomes Diverse Luminaries to its Board of Trustees

Emerson College, a renowned institution known for its excellence in the arts, media, and communication, has announced the addition of four new members and the return of one familiar face to its prestigious Board of Trustees. This diverse group of industry leaders, representing the worlds of film, television, popular fiction, finance, and marketing, will bring a wealth of expertise and vision to guide the college's strategic direction and stewardship of its resources.

Empowering the Next Generation of Storytellers and Innovators

Seth Grahame-Smith '98: Blending Genres, Captivating Audiences

Seth Grahame-Smith, a Los Angeles-based writer and producer, has made a name for himself by seamlessly blending genres and captivating audiences worldwide. With a filmography that has grossed over $2 billion at the box office, Grahame-Smith has collaborated with renowned directors like Steven Spielberg, Ron Howard, and Tim Burton, showcasing his versatility in crafting both family-friendly fare and record-breaking horror films. As the co-founder of KatzSmith Productions, he is dedicated to telling elevated genre stories, with upcoming projects like the highly anticipated "Beetlejuice, Beetlejuice" and a new "Star Trek" film. Grahame-Smith's unique approach to storytelling, which includes his bestselling "mash-up" novels "Pride and Prejudice and Zombies" and "Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter," has cemented his reputation as a visionary in the industry.

Joseph J. Johnson III, P'27: Driving Financial Inclusion and Community Development

Joseph J. Johnson III, a seasoned finance and investment banking professional, brings his expertise to the Emerson College Board of Trustees. As the Managing Director and Head of Liabilities at Lafayette Square Holding Company, LLC, a New York-based firm focused on delivering capital to low- and moderate-income communities, Johnson has dedicated his career to promoting financial inclusion and community development. With nearly 23 years of experience at Goldman Sachs, Johnson has a deep understanding of the financial landscape and a commitment to using his knowledge to make a positive impact. In addition to his role on the Emerson College Board, Johnson chairs the board of the Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone and sits on the boards of directors for Columbia Children's Hospital and the Classical Theatre of Harlem, further demonstrating his dedication to community-driven initiatives.

Adele Lim '96, LHD '22: Championing Diversity and Mentoring the Next Generation

Adele Lim, a film and television producer, screenwriter, and director based in Los Angeles, has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry. As the co-writer of the blockbuster hit "Crazy Rich Asians" and the Oscar-nominated animated film "Raya and the Last Dragon," Lim has demonstrated her ability to craft stories that resonate with audiences worldwide. In 2023, she made her directorial debut with the Asian woman-centered road comedy "Joy Ride," which has been recognized with several awards, including an NAACP Image Award nomination and an Audience Award at SXSW. Beyond her creative work, Lim has been a tireless advocate for diversity and inclusion in Hollywood, mentoring up-and-coming film artists through organizations like the Writers Guild of America, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and the Sundance Institute. Her commitment to nurturing the next generation of storytellers and promoting representation both in front of and behind the camera is a testament to her passion for transforming the industry.

Paul J. Morra '95: Bridging the Gap Between Brands and Audiences

Paul Morra, a partner, executive producer, and director at Swift River Productions, a Los Angeles-based film, television, and brand marketing agency, brings his expertise in the intersection of entertainment and marketing to the Emerson College Board of Trustees. The Swift River team has earned industry recognition for their work with international brands, including Microsoft, Xbox, Adidas, Amazon, Samuel Adams, and Wynn Resorts. Morra's background as an Emmy-nominated television producer and his co-creation of critically acclaimed shows like IFC's "The Henry Rollins Show" demonstrate his versatility in the industry. Additionally, Morra has remained deeply involved with the Emerson community, serving as Vice Chairman of the Alumni Board of Directors, mentoring Emerson students through the Los Angeles internship program, and helping to launch the Career Advisory Network (CAN) mentorship program.

Max Mutchnick '87, LHD '13: Returning to Lead with Vision and Experience

Rounding out the new additions to the Emerson College Board of Trustees is the return of Max Mutchnick, the creator and executive producer of the Emmy Award-winning sitcom "Will & Grace." Mutchnick, who previously served as a Trustee from 2005 to 2018, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success in the television industry. Growing up in Los Angeles, Mutchnick's early exposure to the entertainment industry fueled his passion for storytelling, leading him to collaborate with his longtime friend, David Kohan, on numerous acclaimed television shows. In addition to his Emmy, Mutchnick has been honored with People's Choice Awards and multiple Golden Globe nominations. As he returns to the Emerson College Board of Trustees, Mutchnick's leadership and vision will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the college's future.