10/22/2026
Lights, Camera, Biola! 🎬
On October 15, more than 1,500 guests gathered to celebrate the dedication of Biola University’s new studio facility for the Snyder School of Cinema & Media Arts — a $75 million, 45,463-square-foot space designed to equip the next generation of storytellers to make an impact through film, television, digital media and game design. The celebration featured a red carpet, remarks from university leaders, a ribbon-cutting with President Barry Corey and In-N-Out Burger Owner and President Lynsi Snyder-Ellingson, followed by tours of the state-of-the-art facility, which was made possible in part by a lead gift from Snyder-Ellingson. The school’s name honors her grandmother, Esther L. Snyder, a longtime friend and supporter of Biola.
From the 3,000 sqft Van Daele Soundstage to the 277-seat Dyer Theater featuring 4K projection and Dolby Atmos sound, the new facility gives students the tools to bring meaningful stories to life. And, of course, the evening wrapped up with In-N-Out Cookout Trucks serving up Double-Doubles! As Biola approaches 50 years of cinema and media arts education in 2027, this milestone represents more than a new building. It’s an investment in storytellers who will use their creativity to share truth, inspire audiences and make a lasting impact on the world. The next chapter of storytelling starts here!
