Full Sail University graduate Sheena Carlisle Fowler has recently been named as the Orlando region’s Film Commissioner and associate director of the Metro Orlando Film & Entertainment Commission – a division of the Metro Orlando Economic Development Commission (EDC).
Sheena has been active in the Central Florida entertainment community since completing her Film and Entertainment Business degrees in 2007, previously working as an associate producer for Orlando’s WMFE Public Broadcasting System, as well as serving as the region’s coordinator of film & entertainment.
In her new position, Sheena is in charge of creating marketing initiatives that highlight the region worldwide as a premier film and television production location. In addition to helping attract new business, she will also work to support the growth of existing filmmakers, production companies, and crews based in the community.
“We have a unique juxtaposition of incredible sound stages, locations, existing infrastructure and a talented crew base,” she says. “Projects have everything they need when they come into town.”
While Orlando is known for mild year-round weather and a range of professional production and postproduction facilities, the area also continues to be a popular choice for entertainment companies thanks to a unique tax incentive program. Sheena will also be working to ensure that filmmakers worldwide are aware of the financial incentive that makes Florida an attractive film and entertainment destination.
“I’m looking forward to growing the existing incredible industry in this region by continuing the momentum that began with the recently revamped film legislation,” she says.
As she prepares for her new opportunities as Orlando Film Commissioner, Sheena is excited to further develop her role in the local entertainment community, and explained why the Central Florida area continues to be a fulfilling creative environment for the visual arts, as well as for herself.
“[I like] the ability to touch all types of projects – from feature films to television programs to our region’s bread and butter – television commercials,” she says. “Each day is a surprise and is different from the next. I also love working with our fabulously talented crew base in the region. We are so fortunate to have such a great group of professionals here in Metro Orlando.”
