Dana Coen

Dana Coen is a Professor of the Practice at the University of North Carolina, directing the Writing for the Screen and Stage Minor. He holds an M.F.A. in Playwriting from UCLA and a B.S. in Broadcasting and Film from Boston University. His professional career includes roles as a stage actor, director, playwright, and television writer, blending practical industry experience with academic instruction.

• Current courses: Introduction to Writing for the Screen and Stage, Writing the Short Film, Film Story Analysis, Intermediate Screenwriting
• Key projects: Creator of 'Long Story Shorts' festival, 'Oscar Preview' event, and 'Activated Art' theater series

Research focuses on contemporary dramatic writing addressing socio-political themes like white working-class identity in his 'Mortal Soil' play cycle. Awards include the Jewish Image Award (2003), Templeton Prize (1999), and 2021 Silver Bullet Screenwriting Contest victory for 'Sleeping Upright.'

Prior to UNC, taught at Chapman University’s Dodge College of Film and Media Arts and led UCLA Extension workshops. Maintains active creative output with produced plays, screenplays, and network television episodes across JAG, NCIS, and primetime series.