The vision and mission of the Hanson Film Institute is aligned with the mission and strategic goals of The University of Arizona and its College of Fine Arts. The Institute plays a role in extending the concept of a land-grant university linking scholarship and creativity to societal and community needs.

When possible, the Institute serves the local filmmaking and film going communities by providing professional assistance and/or partial sponsorship of media events, creating community programs specifically, and opening some of its programs to members of the community at large. In addition, the Institute serves community youth and those not enrolled in a University of Arizona program primarily through its Community Youth Media Literacy and Media Making Support Program. A number of the Institute's programs still in the planning stage, such as panels, conferences, and workshops, will directly benefit the community.

Art and Business of Film and Television Learning Opportunities

• Coordination and support of workshops and seminars for students and public

University & Community Film Event Sponsorship Program

• Co-producer of Cine Mexico in collaboration with the Mexican Consulate, Tucson
• Co-producer of the Native Eyes Showcase in collaboration with Arizona State Museum and the National Museum of the American Indian, Smithsonian Institution
• Co-sponsor of diverse Arizona film events
• Sponsor of some UA film/speaker series

Community Youth Media Literacy and Media Making Support Program

• Scholarships to marginalized youth to attend University of Arizona Youth University Video Camp: Filming & Writing
• Collaboration with Tucson schools on youth media programs (not yet implemented)

Professional Development Partnership Program

• Support for media organizations that provide professional development programs, in particular NALIP (National Association for Latino Independent Producers) Producers Academy™ held in Tucson with Institute support since 2005