PHOTO ABOVE: 2024 keynote speaker Ilyse Hogue ’91 discusses “Complexity and Curiosity as Building Blocks for a Better World.” Photo by Karl Rabe.

Vassar Family Feud: Liberal Arts Edition

“Survey says… your Vassar degree is more powerful than you think!” Join hosts Damon Ross ’94 and Eddie Gamarra ’94 for a high-energy, interactive game show where sophomores and mentors go head-to-head to uncover the real-world value of a liberal arts education.

Based on survey data from over 100 Vassar alums and parent mentors, we’re putting the top career insights, networking secrets, and industry “must-haves” on the board. As the game unfolds, Damon and Eddie will weave in personal stories and pro tips from their own professional journeys—from navigating first jobs to leveraging the power of the Vassar network. Come for the competition, stay for the wisdom, and leave with a better understanding of how your Vassar community is the ultimate launchpad for any path you choose.

Speakers

Damon Ross ’94

Keynote Speaker

Producer at DreamWorks Animation

With over 30 years of experience, Damon Ross ’94 (he/him) is a seasoned producer and former development executive specializing in high-profile family entertainment. He has guided major studio projects from inception to theatrical release, including The Bad Guys, The Boss Baby, Captain Underpants, Nacho Libre, and Lemony Snicket: A Series of Unfortunate Events. A “book-to-film” expert, Damon has identified and optioned global bestsellers such as The Wild Robot. Most recently, he produced The Bad Guys 2 for DreamWorks Animation. His career spans key roles at Nickelodeon Movies and DreamWorks Animation, where he advanced from development executive—identifying ideas to adapt into films and shaping screenplays—to hands-on producer, where he is deeply involved in every phase of production. He guides casting and voice records, collaborates with directors in editorial, and supervises music and marketing to ensure creative integrity. Damon has forged lasting relationships with many of the industry’s top comedic writers, directors, and actors. The films he has launched and shepherded have grossed more than $1.5 billion worldwide.

Eddie Gamarra ’94

Keynote Speaker

Founder of Gamarra Media, former VP at Nickelodeon

Former college professor Dr. Eddie Gamarra ’94 (he/him) runs Gamarra Media, selling stories and building franchises across publishing and entertainment. Previously, he was VP of Literary Affairs for Paramount’s Nickelodeon & Awesomeness brands where he scouted and acquired books and other IP (intellectual property). He was previously a literary manager/producer at The Gotham Group, representing screenwriters, directors, animators, authors, illustrators, and publishers. Clients included NYT bestselling storytellers as well as Oscar, Emmy, Annie, Caldecott, Newbery, and Geisel winners/nominees. As executive producer, he worked on The Maze Runner trilogy which grossed almost $1 billion. He also executive produced Jerry Spinelli’s iconic Stargirl for Disney+ and Jordan Peele’s Wendell & Wild for Netflix.