Guest Post by Angela Schmidt, UAF Film Archivist

As an archivist, I’m always looking for meaningful ways to connect historical footage with the people who can bring it to life. That’s why I’m so excited to be part of See Stories, a project that helps educators across Alaska incorporate archival film into their teaching. Through this initiative, teachers are learning how to edit video and create short documentaries about their communities or cultural projects that matter to them. In turn, they’re passing those skills on to their students, who are discovering new ways to tell their own stories.

At the Alaska Film Archives at the University of Alaska Fairbanks, I am surrounded daily by a century of Alaska’s history, captured on film and video by both amateur and professional filmmakers. Many of these filmmakers and their families have generously donated their footage to our archive, hoping others might see, learn from, and reinterpret these historical images. Through See Stories, the work of these filmmakers continues to inspire and challenge, fueling the imaginations and dreams of a new generation of filmmakers, empowering them to confront fears, question old narratives, and reimagine the future.

Working with Alaska educators through the See Stories program has been an inspiring experience. Each teacher brings a unique perspective, shaped by the place they call home. From communities and classrooms large and small across the state, they are finding ways to blend history, storytelling, and technology in ways that are both creative and deeply personal. Watching them dive into archival footage — exploring the past and weaving it into new narratives — reminds me why I do this work.

The best part? Seeing the ripple effect. When students learn to work with archival film, they gain more than technical skills. They develop a connection to history, a sense of place, and the ability to tell stories that might otherwise be lost. Whether they’re documenting local traditions, highlighting community leaders or beloved family members, or sharing untold histories, they are creating something unique and powerful.

It’s an honor to support this process, to provide access to archival materials, and to see firsthand how history can inspire creativity. I marvel at the new films these teachers and students produce, and always look forward to seeing more. It’s a true joy to witness how the past continues to shape the future through their eyes.

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Angela Schmidt, Film Archivist
Alaska Film Archives
Alaska and Polar Regions Collections & Archives
Elmer E. Rasmuson Library
University of Alaska Fairbanks