94-02-04 Festival Director Leaving Post

FESTIVAL DIRECTOR LEAVING POST

     CHARLOTTESVILLE, Va., Feb. 4 -- Laura Oaksmith, director of
the Virginia Festival of American Film for the past two years,
announced today that she will be leaving her post
May 1.
     "The festival is well on its way," Oaksmith said, "and I'm
glad to have had the opportunity to participate in its success." 
     Presented annually at the University of Virginia since 1988,
the festival attracted increased national attention and record
attendance under her direction.
     "Laura Oaksmith has given Virginia something rare and
wonderful during her time with the film festival," said U.Va.
President John T. Casteen III.  "Because of her energy and
vision, the festival has grown and matured.  Its economic
development and educational opportunities are much more visible
across the Commonwealth and beyond."
     Oaksmith said she plans to pursue related career
opportunities in the Richmond area.  She previously directed the
Virginia Film Office, which promotes the state as a film location
as part of the commonwealth's department of economic development.
                               ###
                                                 February 3, 1994

[Submitted by: Karen A. Castle  (kac@uva.pcmail.virginia.edu)
               Fri, 4 Feb 94 09:45:49 EST]