Riverside City College Animation Students and Alumni Selected for 24th Annual Riverside Film Festival

Animation students and alumni from the Department of Art & Art History at Riverside City College (RCC) were officially selected to screen their work at the 24th Annual Riverside Film Festival. The screening took place at the Riverside Box Theatre as part of the festival’s Student Animation Shorts program, highlighting emerging talent and innovative storytelling from across the region. The program featured a strong representation from RCC Animation, with selected alumni Sarah Ruyle and Annika Maganua. Maganua’s and Ruyle’s animation film was also selected and honored at the film festival. Also present was students Valery Flores, Cam Duenas, Moises Sals, Axel Ruiz, Jessica Dias, and Justin Varela, alongside associate faculty Mollie Ong. Their work reflected the creativity, technical skill, and diverse perspectives cultivated within RCC’s animation program.

RCC director of Visual Art and RCC Animation program director, Will Kim, attended the event alongside the selected students. The group not only screened their animated short films but also participated in a live Q&A session, engaging with audience members and sharing insight into their creative processes and experiences as emerging artists.

“This opportunity reflects the strength of our animation program and the dedication of our students and faculty,” said Kim. “Having our work recognized on a public platform like the Riverside Film Festival is a meaningful step in preparing our students for careers in the animation and entertainment industries.”

Participation in the festival underscores RCC’s commitment to providing students with hands-on, real-world experiences that elevate their work beyond the classroom. Events like the Riverside Film Festival offer valuable exposure, professional development, and opportunities for students to connect with broader creative communities.

As RCC continues to expand opportunities in the arts, the success of its animation students and alumni serves as a testament to the college’s focus on innovation, storytelling, and student achievement.