Celebrated Cinematographer Shana Hagan Visits Meadows With Canon’s University EDU Initiative

Meadows’ Division of Film & Media Arts recently welcomed award-winning cinematographer Shana Hagan, ASC, to campus as part of the Canon University EDU Initiative, a program that connects world-class image-makers with the next generation of visual storytellers.

Hagan’s visit brought a unique opportunity for Meadows film students to learn directly from one of the industry’s most accomplished and versatile cinematographers. Her credits span acclaimed documentaries such as The Kingmaker and Miss Americana, hit television series including Parks and Recreation and Somebody Somewhere, and major independent features. Over the course of several days, she led workshops, participated in classroom discussions, reviewed student work, and gave a campus-wide talk about her journey behind the camera.

“I love that Canon’s EDU program connects industry professionals with young filmmakers,” says Hagan, whose visit to SMU was one of her first school visits with the program. “This exchange of knowledge and shared love of storytelling is both creatively satisfying and vitally important to keep our industry alive and thriving.”

Canon’s University EDU Initiative, now in its fourth year, extends the company’s long-standing commitment to photographic and cinematic education. The program is an outgrowth of Canon’s celebrated Explorers of Light (EOL) ambassador program, which was launched in 1994 to recognize world-class photographers and filmmakers while providing educational opportunities for aspiring professionals.



Through the EDU Initiative, Canon’s EOLs immerse themselves in university film and photography programs, tailoring multi-day visits to complement existing coursework. These residencies may include classroom takeovers, hands-on lighting and camera workshops, student portfolio reviews and demonstrations of Canon’s latest imaging technology.

Meadows’ collaboration with Canon brought these experiences directly to film students, creating a dynamic exchange between education and industry. The visit also reflects Meadows’ emphasis on professional readiness and creative mentorship across its disciplines. For Hagan, the chance to meet emerging filmmakers was both a homecoming and a continuation of her own educational journey.

“When I was in film school, I had some wonderful teachers and mentors who believed in me before I learned to believe in myself,” she said. “Now, after more than 30 years in the industry, I’m honored to be the one who is encouraging and supporting the next generation of storytellers and sharing what I’ve learned along the way.”



Canon’s University EDU Initiative has reached more than 40 colleges and universities nationwide, supporting programs in photography, photojournalism, documentary studies and cinematography. Each visit lasts three to four days, allowing visiting artists to build genuine connections with students and faculty.

By bringing industry leaders like Shana Hagan to SMU, Meadows School of the Arts continues its mission to foster creative excellence, professional mentorship and the next generation of voices shaping the future of visual storytelling.

Thank you to Canon for partnering with the school on this amazing opportunity!