Screening Series
Impact Stories is a documentary screening series presented by the University of Washington’s Communication Leadership Master’s Program, celebrating original films from the Pacific Northwest and the power of storytelling to drive social, political, and environmental change.
The series runs across four nights from January through March 2027 at Seattle’s SIFF Film Center. Each screening is followed by a moderated discussion and audience Q&A with the filmmakers, led by UW Communication Leadership faculty member Jordan Melograna.
This year’s films and dates will be announced here closer to the screening. To be notified, email commlead@uw.edu.
Want to Participate?
We’re looking for original documentary films by Pacific Northwest filmmakers, or films that tell a story from the region. If your film took on a real issue and led to real change, we want to see it.
Submissions close September 30. More details and submission guidelines are in the FAQs below.
FAQs
Who runs Impact Stories?
Impact Stories is hosted by UW Communication Leadership, a professional master’s program at the University of Washington, and moderated by filmmaker and UW Communication Leadership instructor Jordan Melograna.
Who attends Impact Stories?
Impact Stories is for filmmakers, film fans, community leaders, communications professionals — and anyone curious about the social issues that our screenings will cover.
Where and when does it take place?
Screenings take place every other Wednesday: Jan 27, Feb 10, Feb 24, and Mar 10. All screenings are held at the SIFF Film Center, 167 Republican St, Seattle, WA 98109. Ticket information will be posted here closer to the series.
What films are eligible for submission?
We’re looking for documentary films that meet a certain criteria, on any subject that take on a social, political, or environmental issue and drive real change. In 2026, our films explored topics including democracy and misinformation, gender identity and incarceration, gun violence in schools, and ocean conservation.
See our FilmFreeway page for full eligibility details and to submit.
What is the deadline?
Films must be submitted through FilmFreeway by Sept 30, 2026. Selected filmmakers will be notified in early December 2026.
Where can I send additional questions?
Email us at commlead@uw.edu by including “Impact Stories” in your subject line.
University of Washington
Department of Communication