Haifaa al-Mansour (Directors Branch), veteran producer Effie T. Brown (Producers Branch), and technology executive Annie Chang (Production and Technology Branch). Photo Courtesy Academy 

The Academy Welcomes Three New Governors-at-Large, Marking Continued Push for Inclusion and Innovation

In a move that reflects both a commitment to global engagement and a more inclusive future, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has elected three new governors-at-large: acclaimed Saudi filmmaker Haifaa al-Mansour (Directors Branch), veteran producer Effie T. Brown (Producers Branch), and technology executive Annie Chang (Production and Technology Branch), who also serves as chair of the Science and Technology Council.

Their three-year terms will begin with the first meeting of the Academy’s 2025–2026 fiscal year.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Haifaa, Effie, and Annie to the Academy’s Board of Governors,” said Academy President Janet Yang in a statement. “Their wealth of experiences, perspectives, and dedication will be vital to our ongoing global and industry outreach efforts.”

Yang also extended gratitude to outgoing at-large governors DeVon Franklin and Rodrigo García, whose six-year tenures helped shape the Academy’s evolving priorities during a period of rapid industry transformation.

The Academy’s Board of Governors, now 55 members strong, serves as the organization’s highest governing body, tasked with setting its strategic direction, ensuring financial health, and safeguarding its mission to recognize and advance the art and science of filmmaking. Governors-at-large, like their branch-elected counterparts, may serve up to two consecutive or non-consecutive three-year terms, followed by a two-year hiatus. They are eligible to return for up to two additional terms, with a lifetime cap of 12 years.

With the addition of al-Mansour, Brown, and Chang—each a leader in their respective field—the Academy Board now comprises 55% women and 31% from underrepresented communities, signaling a measurable step toward long-term inclusion and equity goals.

The appointments come at a time when the Academy continues to expand its global footprint, both through its awards programming and educational initiatives. Al-Mansour, widely regarded as Saudi Arabia’s first female filmmaker, brings international experience and creative vision. Brown, whose producing work often centers on underrepresented voices, is a longtime advocate for equity in Hollywood. Chang’s leadership in technology has been instrumental in shaping digital cinema standards, a critical area as the industry continues to embrace innovation.

These new governors arrive amid ongoing industry change, and the Academy’s commitment to remain both a mirror and a mold of Hollywood’s future.

For the full list of the 2025–2026 Academy Board of Governors, visit oscars.org.

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences is a global institution of over 10,500 film industry professionals. Best known for the Oscars®, the Academy also houses the world’s largest collection of film-related materials and operates the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. Its year-round efforts include preservation, education, and programs that promote diversity and access across the film landscape.

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