St. John’s, NL - In a fitting tribute to one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s most influential film pioneers, College of the North Atlantic (CNA) proudly announces the official opening of the Paul L. Pope Centre for TV & Film.
This industry-leading facility, dedicated to the memory of Paul Pope (1958-2022), stands as a testament to his extraordinary legacy in the Canadian film industry and his unwavering commitment to nurturing new talent in this province.
Paul Pope was a dynamic force in Canadian cinema, producing or contributing to hundreds of films. As a founding member and long-serving president of the Newfoundland Filmmakers Cooperative (NIFCO), Paul was instrumental in developing a vibrant production industry in Newfoundland and Labrador. His passion for independent film and dedication to Canadian storytelling made him a revered mentor and advocate at both the provincial and national levels.
He held leadership roles with the Canadian Media Producers Association, Resource Centre for the Arts, NIFCO, and the Canadian Media Fund, and was celebrated with numerous accolades, including the Arts Achievement Award from ArtsNL, the Douglas James Dales Industry Builder Award, and an honorary Doctorate from Memorial University. Before his passing in 2022, Paul’s vision of establishing a film and television school in Newfoundland and Labrador became a reality through CNA.
“College of the North Atlantic continues to be responsive to the needs of industry by providing timely and in-demand educational programs like their television and film programs,” said Premier Furey. “The Paul L. Pope Centre for TV & Film is an appropriate tribute to a man who continuously advocated for and contributed to the industry in this province. The staff and students who walk through the halls of this modern facility will surely be inspired by the work ethic and tenacity that Mr. Pope’s legacy entails.”
Elizabeth Kidd, President and CEO of College of the North Atlantic, expressed her excitement for the students who will benefit for years to come.
“It is incredibly fitting that the next generation of TV and film experts in Newfoundland and Labrador will hone their craft in a beautiful, well-equipped facility named in honour of one of the pioneers of this province’s industry,” said Kidd. “Paul Pope was not only a dynamic force in film production but also a generous mentor and a passionate advocate for Canadian artists and their stories. We are deeply grateful for the support of the provincial government, Paul’s family, and his friends in the film industry who have helped make his vision a reality.”
For Lisa Porter, President of Pope Productions, the Paul L. Pope Centre for TV & Film is more than a building; it is a vibrant learning environment designed to inspire the creativity and innovation that her late husband championed throughout his career.
“With the opening of this state-of-the-art TV & Film Centre, Paul’s dream comes to life,” Porter said. “His legendary expertise, passion for sharing knowledge, and boundless imagination are reflected in every corner of this space. As we approach NIFCO’s 50th anniversary, this centre stands as a fitting tribute to Paul and all the filmmakers who have built this industry from the ground up.”
To learn more about the TV and film programs at CNA, visit
College of the North Atlantic - School of Academics Applied Arts & Tourism (cna.nl.ca).
-30-
Media Contact:
Ryan Crocker
Manager of Communications
College of the North Atlantic
P: (709) 699-8981
E:
ryan.crocker@cna.nl.ca