Stephens College Welcomes True/False Film Fest Back to Campus
Stephens College will once again take center stage as a key creative partner and host venue for the internationally recognized True/False Film Fest — bringing filmmakers, artists, and thousands of visitors to campus. The event will be held Thursday, March 5, through Sunday, March 8.
Each year, True/False draws nearly 40,000 attendees to Columbia, positioning Stephens as both a cultural hub and a national-facing destination for creative storytelling.
This year’s festival will feature film screenings, live music, art installations, educational programming, and special campus-hosted events — offering students and visitors an immersive experience at the intersection of art, education, and community.
Spotlight on Student Filmmakers
Stephens talent will also be represented on screen.
Acting majors Luke Holden and Avery McDonald, both students in the Filmmaking I course, have had their work accepted into the festival’s Gimme Truth competition.
Holden’s film, I Blame Chalamet, and McDonald’s film, Alone, will be featured as part of the showcase — a major accomplishment that underscores Stephens’ commitment to experiential learning and student creativity.
“Gimme Truth only programs ten two-minute films, so for Stephens to occupy 20% of the lineup is pretty special,” said Chase Thompson, Associate Professor of Film and Program Chair. “It’s always one of the first True/False events to sell out, and I’m just thrilled Luke and Avery get to have this experience on the Blue Note stage.”
Camp True/False Returns to Campus
A highlight of the weekend is the return of Camp True/False, an educational program designed to introduce high school filmmakers to the art of nonfiction storytelling.
This year’s Camp True/False is expected to host more than 35 student participants — with additional attendees anticipated. It’s an opportunity for students to attend a film screening together and participate in hands-on workshops led by Stephens faculty alongside festival instructors, providing students with real-world insight into filmmaking and production.
Camp True/False represents a powerful recruitment and engagement opportunity — introducing emerging filmmakers to Stephens’ creative community during one of the city’s most visible cultural moments.
Special Alumni & Community Event
Stephens will also host “Come True/False with Us,” a happy hour for filmmaking and MFA alumni with special guest, President Shannon Lundeen.
This gathering celebrates Stephens’ creative legacy while strengthening connections between alumni, current students, and visiting artists.
Festival Programming on Campus
Throughout the festival, Stephens venues will serve as important hubs for screenings and performances.
Key Campus Events Include:
- Film screenings at Windsor Auditorium
- Campfire Stories (Music Event) – March 6
- Sanctuary Showcase – March 7 at Firestone Baars Chapel
- Saturday Night Music Showcase – March 7 at Kimball Ballroom
Additional temporary art installations will activate outdoor campus spaces, further integrating Stephens into the festival’s creative landscape.
A National Cultural Moment
Hosting True/False reinforces Stephens’ role as a premier cultural venue, a creative collaborator and a gateway for emerging artists.
It also provides a unique opportunity to showcase the Stephens experience to prospective students, alumni, donors, and national arts leaders.
As campus transforms into a vibrant festival destination, Stephens continues to demonstrate how education and creativity intersect to create meaningful impact.
