Two students from Stony Brook University’s MFA in Television Writing Program have received top honors at the 2025 Austin Film Festival, a prominent event for screenwriting and storytelling in film and television.
Anna Zabel was awarded the AMC One-Hour Pilot Award for her script "Courier Girl." The story is set in 1940 Warsaw and follows Kasia, who risks her life by becoming one of the Aryan-looking “courier girl” spies. Zabel said, “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 episode centers on Shauna, a pregnant character facing starvation, who struggles with shame after developing a taste for her own blood. Lottie, another character, offers support through an unsettling ritual involving her followers. Judges praised He’s script for its bold tone and emotional depth.
“These wins are a testament to the strength of our students’ voices and the quality of storytelling our program nurtures,” said Alan Kingsberg, program director of the MFA in Television Writing. “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, received the Polly Platt Award for Producing at this year’s festival. The award recognizes producers who demonstrate vision and innovation while supporting unique voices in storytelling. Vachon has mentored many writers and filmmakers throughout her career; Killer Films has produced acclaimed films such as "Carol," "Boys Don’t Cry," and "May December."
“Christine’s recognition at Austin underscores what makes our programs so special,” Kingsberg added. “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 operates out of Stony Brook Manhattan Center for Creative Writing and Film. It continues to gain distinction as it prepares new writers to bring original stories to television screens.