Stephen Kniss

Stephen Kniss serves as Assistant Professor in the School of Stage and Screen at Western Carolina University's David Orr Belcher College of Fine and Performing Arts, where he integrates practical filmmaking with theoretical instruction to develop students' creative processes for professional careers.

His educational credentials include:

• MFA from DePaul University
• BA from Eastern Mennonite University

Kniss specializes in dramatic narrative filmmaking with emphasis on intergenerational family dynamics, balancing cinematic technique with thematic depth. His pedagogical approach combines lecture-based theory with hands-on production experience to cultivate sustainable creative workflows beyond academia.

Notable professional achievements include:

• Best Short Film award at Lake Michigan Film Festival for "Rear View"
• Best Student Film award at Big Picture Film Festival for "Rear View"
• Completion of co-directed feature film debut "Never Not Yours"

With extensive experience as 1st Assistant Director on globally screened projects, Kniss maintains active industry engagement while mentoring emerging filmmakers through Western Carolina's film program.