Christopher Ellms Jr. confirmed to chair PUC
Christopher Ellms Jr. received a 4-1 vote from the executive council on Wednesday, March 4, to become the next chair of the state’s Public Utilities Commission.
NH Media Teachers and Media Power Youth partner to expand state film festival
New Hampshire Media Teachers and Media Power Youth (MPY) have announced a strategic partnership for the 2026 NH High School Short Film Festival (NHHSSFF). This collaboration introduces a new category designed to celebrate the students, educators and community members who help New Hampshire’s schools and neighborhoods thrive.
For nearly two decades, the NHHSSFF has sparked imagination across the Granite State, serving as the state’s premier platform for student filmmakers. Every year, students are invited to submit 6-minute short films in a genre of their choosing, encouraging them to lead their own learning and find their unique cinematic voice.
“The NHHSSFF is an important event for students across New Hampshire because it provides a platform for students to showcase their work, gain feedback and engage with a creative community,” says Aleesha Pinkham, director of the NHHSSFF. “The festival is an integral part of many high school curriculums and is one of the few options in high school where you can turn regular coursework into a project that promotes self-expression and confidence. We are so excited to see what amazing work students bring to the festival this year!
This year, the festival is highlighting the Spotlight Community Impact Awards, presented in partnership with Media Power Youth with support from the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation. This category invites students to use media as a springboard for conversation and connection by telling the story of a group, individual or project that has had a positive influence on their school and broader community. Examples might include a profile of a local coach, a documentary on a community garden, or a photo essay highlighting a school-based mental health initiative.
The Spotlight category is open to both individual students and groups. Participants may choose to submit either a short film or a single photograph accompanied by a short essay (350 – 500 words). Award recipients in each category will receive a prize basket with tickets to local attractions and shareable goodies, while their school’s media program will receive a $500 B&H Photo Video gift card to support future storytelling.
“Media Power Youth is all about championing young students’ creativity and mental well-being,” remarks MPY Board Member Amanda Andrews. “Our mission is to empower the next generation with media literacy skills and inspire positive use of media in a way that sparks self-confidence. The festival gives today’s youth an outlet to share their passions, while also engaging in meaningful conversations with others in their community.”
Submissions for the main film festival and the Spotlight Community Impact Awards category are both due on April 19, 2026. Works will be evaluated by a panel including local community members, industry professionals and students from the Media Power Youth advisory board. Selected works will be showcased on May 17 at Chunky’s Cinema in Manchester.
To learn more about the festival and how to share your story, visit www.nhmediateachers.org/nhhssff.
