About the Festival
River Bend Film Festival 2026 Board of Directors
Kyle Hufford, Chair
Professor of Communication, Goshen College
Executive Director, FiveCore Media
Festival Media Manager, Filmmaker
Geneviéve Carreño, Hospitality, Talent, Marketing Coordinator
Abby Gilbert, General Support
Jordon Hodges, Program Manager
Partner, Affinity-Corp
Actor, Writer, Filmmaker
Francisco Ramirez, Event Coordinator
Travel Consultant, Menno Travel
Tim Richardson, Board Member at Large
Educator, South Bend Community Schools Media Arts
Member, Mid America Filmmakers
RBFF Founder, Filmmaker
Todd Yoder, Secretary/Treasurer
Vice President of Development, Greencroft Communities
President, Greencroft Communities Foundation
Megan Hessl, ad hoc Board Member
Trust and Charitable Administrator, Everence
President, Goshen Arts and Events
Past RBFF chair
Key Festival Positions
Neil King, Festival Director
Co-owner and Director of Marketing, Eyedart Creative Studio
Joni Earl, House Manager
Owner, Woodstar Photography
Board Member, Goshen Art House
Member, Goshen Theater Programming Committee
Amy Worsham, Grant and Volunteer Coordinator
Katie Barnes, Stage Manager
Script Judges
Stephen Susco
Dave Orvis
Rose Orvis
Zoe Bird
Chris Waite
Barbara Devereaux
Debbie McMillen
Ed Ernstes
About
The River Bend Film Festival is a celebration of independent filmmaking that brings creators and audiences together through the power of storytelling. Held annually in downtown Goshen, Indiana, the festival features screenings, workshops, filmmaker panels, guest appearances, and special events—all designed to foster connection, creativity, and community.
RBFF showcases all genres, including narrative, documentary, animation, experimental, music video, student work, shorts, and feature films. The festival highlights the work of local and regional filmmakers while also screening bold, original stories from across the country and around the world. Each year, River Bend screens 50–70 films from a range of voices and styles.
Past workshops have covered everything from lighting, acting, and editing to screenwriting, crowdfunding, and visual effects. The festival is known for its warm, welcoming atmosphere and its commitment to emerging talent and creative risk-taking.
RBFF is organized by Goshen Arts & Events, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and supported by grants, sponsorships, and a dedicated community. The festival is led by Festival Director Joni Earl and a passionate Board of Directors.
Interested in submitting your film? Visit filmfreeway.com/RiverBendFilmFestival.
What to Expect
Whether you’re a filmmaker, film lover, or first-time festival-goer, River Bend offers something for everyone. Here’s a peek at what you can expect:
- 80+ Films from 15+ countries, including world premieres, award winners, and local gems
- Special Guests from across the film industry—directors, writers, producers, actors, and more
- Workshops & Panels led by pros covering everything from screenwriting to VFX
- Mixers & After-Parties in downtown Goshen’s coolest spots—perfect for networking or just having fun
- Accessible Venues including the historic Goshen Theater and 7+ partner locations, all within walking distance
- A welcoming, laid-back atmosphere that celebrates creativity and community
Join us for three unforgettable days of film, connection, and inspiration!
