DEAF / HOH INDIVIDUALS
Front Row Films strongly believes that every Deaf/HOH individual deserves a chance to thrive in the film industry with the help of our talented experts.
History behind the
FRF Journey.
COMMUNICATION. CONNECTION. EXCHANGE OF INFORMATION.
. . . Our Story
Innovation & Strategy
Before the establishment of Front Row Films in 2020, founder Michael Kaufer spent years building a foundation rooted in access, education, and creative excellence within the Deaf and hard of hearing filmmaking community. Through early work with Deaf Film Camp and other immersive programs, he helped mentor Deaf youth and emerging artists, introducing them to the craft of filmmaking through hands-on instruction, collaboration, and professional-grade tools.
These early initiatives—featured in publications including Adirondack Life and other industry outlets—highlighted a growing movement: Deaf and hard of hearing storytellers gaining the skills, confidence, and platforms to share their voices. Working alongside accomplished filmmakers, instructors, and production teams, Michael developed extensive experience across directing, producing, education, and program coordination, while collaborating with a wide range of filmmaker companies and creative innovators.
In 2020, this work evolved into the formal launch of Front Row Films, an organization committed to making visual arts accessible to Deaf and hard of hearing communities worldwide. Through education, workshops, consulting, and program coordination, Front Row Films supports both youth and experienced filmmakers—bridging mentorship with innovation.
Today, Front Row Films continues to foster an inclusive and vibrant arts landscape by expanding access, amplifying Deaf voices, and ensuring that visual storytelling is a space where everyone belongs.
Meet our Dreammakers
Our diverse team combines expertise in data analysis, marketing strategies, and creative thinking to deliver impactful solutions for our communities.
Michael Kaufer
FOUNDER
Educator and advocate dedicated to expanding access to storytelling and filmmaking within Deaf communities worldwide, with a passion for traveling to Deaf schools, organizations, and international events and festivals; a love of film; an enthusiasm for exploring global cuisines and trying new foods; and a deep appreciation for collecting art by Deaf artists
Phil Jacob
BOARD MEMBER
Phil Jacob discovered his love for theater during his college years in Rochester, New York, a passion that has continued through years of attending Broadway and off-Broadway productions. As a parent of three, he values the importance of arts exposure in shaping creativity and perspective, and he brings this commitment to his work as a board member of Front Row Films.
Patty Gregory-Keinath
BOARD MEMBER
Driven by a love of travel and cultural exploration, Patty brings a global perspective to her work in film and the arts. Through experiencing diverse cultures around the world, she gathers inspiration that informs creative ideas and storytelling. Patty is excited to collaborate with Front Row Films to help transform cultural experiences into meaningful artistic expressions, supporting projects that celebrate creativity, connection, and the power of visual storytelling.
Zavier Sabio
BOARD MEMBER
A cultural educator and access-centered creative with a deep love for film, visual arts, and fashion as powerful forms of visual storytelling. His work centers on creating meaningful access through ASL-centered arts programming and community-based cultural initiatives in museums and creative spaces. Zavier understands firsthand the importance of access not only to content, but to creative expression and cultural participation. As a board member of Front Row Films, he strives to bring lived experience, creative vision, and a strong commitment to centering community voices in film and visual arts.
Charmaine Hlibok
Director of Partnerships and
Special Projects
Charmaine brings 25 years of experience as a teacher and elementary school principal to Front Row Films. She is passionate about delivering high-quality, ASL - centered programs for Deaf youth and families in both school and camp settings. Through filmmaking, Charmaine helps create spaces where participants can fully express themselves in ASL—empowering Deaf youth to share their perspectives and see their stories come alive on screen.
Douglas Ridloff
Creative Director
A filmmaker, poet, and ASL master whose work spans film, television, and live performance. Douglas is best known for founding ASL SLAM and for advancing authentic Deaf representation through signing storytelling and visual language. Douglas helps expand creative access by mentoring artists and strengthening ASL-centered storytelling across programs and festivals.
Shannon Cooley
Marketing & Creative Services Producer
A marketing and creative producer with a passion for scriptwriting, design, and technology. With over 25 years in the graphic design industry, she draws inspiration from the energy of city life, creating websites and visual stories that reflect unique personalities. Tech-savvy and creatively driven, she balances her work by dabbling in art to recharge, fueled by her go-to mushroom coffee. Through inclusive storytelling, Shannon hopes to inspire the Deaf and Hard of Hearing community and their allies.
Toby Silver
Special Projects Producer
A seasoned producer and community advocate, Toby R Silver is a retired federal TV Producer/Director whose career spans television, film, education, and advocacy —recognized for impactful work along the way. She’s thrilled to join Front Row Films Family to help produce mission-driven programs and special events that celebrate ASL/Deaf culture, spark connection, and create experiences where stories truly connect onto the Big Screen.