Will Kertzman

Pronouns: they/he

Will's current research focuses on the relationship between popular American films that depict apocalyptic narratives and the political reality of things like climate change policy and action.

Will Kertzman is a masters student in the Media Culture and Technology program. They have a bachelors degree in history and media studies from Skidmore College, in Saratoga Springs, New York. Prior to returning to school to pursue a masters degree in media studies, they spent time working for various historical institutions in New York State, including the Lake George Battlefield Park Alliance and the National September 11th Memorial and Museum. In their time at UVA, Will has served as a teaching assistant in media studies and data science, as well as serving as a research assistant on the university-wide Gun Violence Solutions Project with a particular focus on documentary filmmaking's role in addressing both the causes and consequences of gun violence. Will's current research focuses on the social, psychological, and political utility of apocalyptic narratives in popular American culture.

Research areas: film, popular culture, apocalyptic imaginaries, American politics

Education:

Bachelor of Arts in History, Skidmore College, Saratoga Springs, United States, 2022