Dana Blankstein Cohen is the Executive Director of the Sam Spiegel Film and Television School, recognized as one of the leading film schools in the world by the Hollywood Reporter for seven years in a row.

The School’s move from its historic location after 33 years to the new Arts Campus in central Jerusalem demonstrates the commitment to being a school for storytellers. As part of Blankstein Cohen’s vision, Sam Spiegel continues to encourage and facilitate creative storytelling for all of the diverse communities that make up the unique mosaic of Israeli life.

Blankstein Cohen also oversees the successful Sam Spiegel International Film Lab, now in its twelfth year and spearheaded the launch of the new Series Lab in 2021 in cooperation with Netflix.

In keeping with her vision, she also initiated a fast-track preparatory program for creators from East Jerusalem.

The new location in central Jerusalem allowed the School to open student-run cinemas for the general audience. In keeping with the spirit of openness, the School offers courses to the general public with leading School faculty.

Previously, the CEO of the Israeli Academy of Film and Television, Blankstein Cohen is an integral member of the selection committee for the Ophir Prize.

Blankstein Cohen, herself a graduate of Sam Spiegel, has accredited experience as a filmmaker and director. Continuing her career as an Israeli cultural entrepreneur, Blankstein Cohen was on the founding board of an association for the advancement of women in film and is a member of the European Film Academy.