Two students from Stony Brook University’s MFA in Television Writing Program have received top honors at the 2025 Austin Film Festival, a well-known event in the screenwriting and storytelling industry.
Anna Zabel was awarded the AMC One-Hour Pilot Award for her script “Courier Girl,” which centers on Kasia, a woman living in the Jewish ghetto of 1940 Warsaw who becomes a spy by disguising herself as an Aryan courier. Zabel commented, “This recognition at Austin is a tremendous honor. Courier Girl is inspired by the real women who risked everything to fight oppression with intelligence and bravery. I’m grateful to the MFA in Television Writing faculty and peers who supported this story from its earliest drafts.”
Cynthia He won the Drama Teleplay Spec Award for her episode of “Yellowjackets: Thicker than Water.” The story follows Shauna, who faces extreme hunger during pregnancy and confronts disturbing choices under psychological strain. Judges noted the script’s emotional depth and strong craft. He said, “These wins are a testament to the strength of our students’ voices and the quality of storytelling our program nurtures,” according to Alan Kingsberg, director of the MFA in Television Writing program. “We’re incredibly proud of Anna and Cynthia, whose bold, imaginative scripts have been recognized on one of the most respected stages in the screenwriting community.”
Christine Vachon, artistic director of Stony Brook’s MFA Programs in Film and Television Writing and co-founder of Killer Films, was honored with the Polly Platt Award for Producing at this year’s festival. The award highlights producers who support unique voices in storytelling. Vachon has produced several acclaimed films through Killer Films, including “Carol,” “Boys Don’t Cry,” and “May December.” Kingsberg added, “Christine’s recognition at Austin underscores what makes our programs so special. Our students are learning from one of the most respected producers in the industry, someone who has spent her career elevating daring, original stories.”
The MFA in Television Writing program is based at Stony Brook Manhattan Center for Creative Writing and Film.
