In today’s media landscape, women remain underrepresented behind the camera, with only a small percentage of major film and television productions directed by women. For Alana Lorusso ’25 and Brooke Rameaka ’26, those statistics aren’t discouraging—they’re motivating. Determined to help shift the narrative, the two are beginning to create change and representation right here at Endicott.
Inspired by trailblazing filmmakers like Greta Gerwig, Nancy Meyers, and Amy Heckerling, Lorusso and Rameaka are channeling their influence into their own work, carrying forward lessons of creativity, inclusivity, and persistence as they carve out their place in the industry.
That same passion also led the digital media majors to create the Women in Film Club, a safe and supportive space where female-identifying students can come together, build friendships, and connect through a shared interest in film, television, and media.
“I got the idea for the club because TV and film-focused digital media majors at Endicott are small as is, but the number of women-identifying students in the major was even smaller. I felt I wasn’t really connecting to a lot of them and wanted to change that,” said Lorusso, who graduated in December 2025 and hopes to work her way up to a producer role.
Lorusso recognized the divide among female filmmakers and refused to accept it as the norm, taking the initiative to launch a club aimed at changing the narrative.
Melissa Yang, Professor of Communication and faculty lead in the School of Social Sciences, Communication, & Humanities, advises the club, encouraging those with a vision of change and progress to take initiative.
“I was impressed with Alana’s vision from the moment she first approached me,” said Yang. “I wholeheartedly support the club’s mission, especially since our digital media program tends to be more male-dominant. For example, our current first-year cohort only has one female student.”
The club, primarily open to digital media students, also welcomes anyone with a passion for television or film to join the conversation.
Every Monday, Gulls can come together to talk, connect, and reflect on the TV and film industry in a safe space. The meetings aren’t just focused on the profession, but a way to make new friends through empowerment and confidence.
Films like Clueless and Dead Poets Society have been among the popular titles discussed in the club. For many members, these screenings are their first time watching the films, sparking new interest not only in the stories but in the filmmaking and production behind them.
When it comes to female empowerment, having a passionate and engaged community is essential. Without support and shared connections, it can be difficult for voices to be heard. At Endicott, students have many opportunities to create change through involvement and shape their own experience, including sometimes starting their own club.
Lorusso and Rameaka—who plan to become a creative director and video producer, respectively, after graduation in May—hope to see the next generation of students take the lead and keep the club and its mission moving forward.
If you are interested in the club, come to a meeting! The group meets every Monday at 7 p.m. in Room 128 of the Wax Academic Center. For more information, Brooke Rameaka is happy to answer any questions at brameaka@mail.endicott.edu.