Biography
Scott Aaron Hartmann is an award-winning filmmaker, educator, and advocate for underrepresented voices in the film industry. With more than a decade of teaching experience across the globe, Scott has shaped the next generation of filmmakers, emphasizing the importance of storytelling, cultural representation, and collaboration in cinema.
Scott holds an MFA in Film Production with an emphasis in Directing from Chapman University, where he graduated with honors. His career in education has taken him from the heart of Hollywood to international locations such as Abu Dhabi and Paris, exposing him to a wide range of cultural and artistic perspectives. As Senior Directing Instructor and former Associate Chair of the Film Department at the New York Film Academy in Los Angeles, Scott has taught MFA, MA, BFA, and AFA courses in all areas of narrative film production. He specializes in directing, screenwriting, film production, editing, and sound design, and has guided students from concept to completion on their thesis projects.
Scott’s global teaching journey has enriched his understanding of diversity, and he has worked with students from all over the world, fostering an environment of inclusivity and cross-cultural collaboration. His tenure in Abu Dhabi was particularly impactful, where he navigated religious and cultural sensitivities while empowering students to tell authentic stories that honor their backgrounds. As an enrolled member of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma, Scott is deeply committed to advocating for Native American representation in the film industry. His passion for narrative sovereignty and cultural integrity extends to all underrepresented groups, as he believes that storytelling is a powerful medium for bridging cultural divides.
In addition to his teaching, Scott’s own creative work explores themes of identity, community, and representation. His independent short films have screened at festivals worldwide, earning multiple awards, including Best Native American Short at the Lake Arrowhead Film Festival and Best Short at the Thunderbird Film Festival. He has directed notable actors such as Joseph Runningfox ('Geronimo') and Misty Upham ('Frozen River'). His dedication to empowering diverse voices is also reflected in the work of his students, many of whom have produced award-winning short films under his mentorship.
