Nancy Hamilton | CEO, Golden Eagle Films & Golden Eagle AI | PhD Education | National Emmy Judge | 100+ Film Awards | Producer, Director & Educator | Professional Member of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.

How many years have you been a judge?

1-3 years

What excited you about judging for the Telly Awards?

The fact that the Telly Awards receives over 13,000 entries globally from 6 continents and all 50 states and has been active since 1979 demonstrates the longevity and credibility of the Telly Awards and I am honored to have been selected as a judge for 2026

What was your first job in the industry? What did it teach you?

I was a video producer back in the 80’s when editing was still accomplished with a pair of scissors and tweezers. I learned that digital editing was a piece of cake in comparison! :)

What project are you most proud to have worked on?

Every film and documentary I have ever worked on! Each production has it’s own unique identity and they are all my children :)

What’s the most challenging part about your job and/or the industry?

At the current time as I transition from traditional filmmaking to AI production and Hybrid AI production my focus has been on educating filmmakers about the use of AI in film.

What do you look for to determine excellence in video?

Exceptional storytelling, craft, professionalism, and expert technical skills.

What are your current roles and responsibilities and what do you love most about your job?

I am the Producer/Director and Co-Founder of Golden Eagle Films/Golden Eagle AI – I love everything about my job and am currently very excited to be combining my traditional filmmaking skills with the latest AI technology

What initiatives or projects are you working on now that excite you?

I am currently working on an animated feature film “Pilgrim’s Progress 2 – Christiana” and creating it with AI technology. I am super excited to be transferring my traditional animation skills over to AI.

Do you have any specific practices you lean on to spark creativity?

I am inspired by true stories of individuals who have overcome great obstacles. Such individuals spark my creativity and create a the desire to tell their stories.

What inspired you to pursue your career path?

The first time I picked up a handy-cam back in the early 80s and did my first zoom I was hooked.

In your experience, what is a significant change you are seeing happen in the video, television, and/or film industry, and what insight can you share about how to navigate it?

By far the most significant change is the introduction of the use of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the film and animation industry. Education must be continued to break down barriers, prejudice and fear. The technology is by far the most incredible tool filmmakers have ever been given and yet ignorance and fear are preventing many from enjoying the creativity it so readily affords.