The secret to Studer’s continued success very well may be her ability to connect with like-minded partners and creators who, like her, are dedicated to bringing more inclusive representation to storytelling that will provide younger, more impressionable viewers with positive experiences. “I’m committed to broadening the aperture in film by curating inclusive stories by women, BIPOC and LGBTQ creatives,” she says. “Everyone deserves to be seen and heard and our films should be reflective of the world we live in.” Toward that end, she co-launched and co-chairs Nickelodeon and Awesomeness’ Inclusivity Council, which has a goal of developing representative storytelling across the company’s creative departments and teams. Studer is also expanding the studio’s footprint beyond linear TV by bringing younger-skewing films—like “The J Team,” “Fantasy Football,” and the first film adaptation of “Hush Hush”— to the ViacomCBS-owned Paramount+ streaming service.
How have you been a champion of diversity, equity, and inclusion?
I’m committed to broadening the aperture in film by curating inclusive stories by women, BiPOC and LGBTQ creatives. Everyone deserves to be seen and heard and our films should be reflective of the world we live in. I also have the pleasure of co-chairing our company’s Inclusivity Council. I’m so proud of the programming that the team has developed.
My best advice for fostering open, honest communication…
Great ideas come from anywhere and everywhere within an organization, but you must commit yourself to being an active listener. At various stages of my career, thoughtful leaders gave me a platform to share ideas and strategy and the runway to prove out my ideas. I’m committed to paying it forward and take great pride in making myself open and available to listen, mentor and advocate for the next generation of leaders.
Which celebrity do you think is setting a strong example for the next generation?
Marsai Martin’s determination and talent blows me away. As the youngest producer of a major studio motion picture, she has reset the game and set an impressive example for entrepreneurship and tenacity. She’s a force and I’m so excited to partner with her on our upcoming sports family film, “Fantasy Football.”
Favorite current show that you feel embraces D&I?
I’m a huge fan of “Pose.” That series and its creators have singlehandedly changed the game, opening the eyes and hearts of audiences as well as the industry at large to the awe-inspiring talent of trans BiPOC creatives and I’m here for it!
