Stanley Nelson

Stanley Earl Nelson Jr., born on June 7, 1951, is an esteemed American documentarian with a rich history in creating films that examine African-American history and experiences. He is recognized as a writer, director, and producer and is a recipient of the prestigious 2013 National Humanities Medal awarded by President Obama. He has also earned three Primetime Emmy Awards. Nelson's significant films include Freedom Riders (2010), Wounded Knee (2009), and Jonestown: The Life & Death of People's Temple (2006). Born and brought up in New York City, he holds an educational background from the New Lincoln School and the City College of New York where he achieved a BFA in 1976.

Upon graduation, Nelson had a chance to apprentice with the notable documentary filmmaker, William Greaves. He is also acknowledged for his award-winning documentary, Two Dollars and a Dream: The Story of Madam C.J Walker, which aired on PBS during Black History Month in 1988. Nelson has contributed to productions for the Smithsonian Institution and has been a panel member for the selection of Fulbright Fellowship in films. He received a MacArthur Fellowship in 2002. He now serves as Executive Director and co-founder of Firelight Media with his wife, Marcia Smith. This non-profit organization offers support and education to budding documentarians. He is also the co-founder of the for-profit documentary production company, Firelight Films.