Alexis Winston, a 2017 graduate of Pace University with a BA in Film and Screen Studies, has joined The New York Times as a video production and planning coordinator. In her new position, Winston acts as an intermediary between producers, journalists, and the operations team to help deliver high-quality video content for the publication’s reporter video team.
“This is a brand-new role on the reporter video team, where I serve as a conduit between producers, journalists, and the operations team to execute high-quality video content that supports some of the most renowned reporters in the world. It’s deeply meaningful work, to contribute to one of the most respected news organizations on the planet, where our goal every day is to serve the public with accurate, thoughtful, and engaging journalism. Helping to bring that mission to life through video feels both purposeful and humbling,” Winston said.
Winston described her career path since graduating from Pace as varied but ultimately rewarding. She spent several years freelancing in film before taking a production assistant job at Paramount. That opportunity introduced her to corporate production work. She noted periods of unemployment during industry disruptions such as COVID-19 and entertainment industry strikes but eventually secured roles at Condé Nast and now The New York Times.
Reflecting on her academic background, Winston said her interest in movies began at an early age and was nurtured by family experiences and school activities. “My love for movies began when I watched Mississippi Burning at just three years old, from beginning to end. From there, it grew through family movie nights at the Regal Theater in Peekskill and later in my high school’s film club, which happened to host the largest high school film festival in the country. Choosing film as a major was an easy decision. I wanted to study in the heart of New York City, where the streets themselves feel like a film set. I’m grateful to my parents for supporting my dream, because I can’t imagine having chosen any other path.”
She credited Pace University with shaping her ambitions: “I chose Pace not just because of the scholarship opportunities I received, but because of what the university stands for: ambition, inclusivity, and real-world experience. Pace always felt like the place where hard work met opportunity, and it truly was. I saw that through my friends and classmates, who constantly inspired me to push myself. With the concrete jungle as our campus, I naturally adopted the hustle mentality that New York City demands. That drive stayed with me and became the foundation for how I approach my career today.”
Winston emphasized how her studies prepared her professionally: “Pace was where I learned to take my dreams seriously. It was the first time that working in film felt tangible, something I could actually pursue. I used every opportunity even in non-film classes to create video projects instead of essays… Through Pace I learned how to think creatively work collaboratively and turn my passion into a profession.”
She also acknowledged Professor Amy Zilliax for inspiring students beyond technical skills: “Professor Amy Zilliax of the Film and Screen Studies department is and was one of the most inspiring professors I’ve ever had… Her classes didn’t just teach film; they taught perspective empathy and curiosity… Her passion fueled mine.”
Looking back on her time at Dyson College within Pace University she stated: “New York has seen me through every version of myself As a Pace student I learned resilience–how to survive and thrive in a city that never stops moving There were moments of loneliness failure uncertainty but Pace gave me strength.”
Her advice for current students is focused on patience perseverance: “To current students I’d say this your time will come Don’t rush it don’t compare your journey anyone else’s never give up Keep showing up yourself even when results don’t come right away That’s where magic happens.”
