Most people can’t say they were hired by Steven Spielberg, helped bring film incentives back to Wisconsin, and were named Big Brothers Big Sisters Match of the Year—all in the same career.
But Suzanne Jurva has never followed a conventional path.
From growing up across the Midwest to becoming a champion for Milwaukee’s film industry and youth mentorship programs, Suzanne has built a career around one simple idea: bringing people together. Whether she’s producing films, advocating for local artists, mentoring the next generation, or helping shape Milwaukee’s creative future, the community has always been at the center of her work.
We sat down with Suzanne to talk about her unlikely journey into filmmaking, the lessons she learned from family, and how arts, culture, and mentorship can help build a stronger city for everyone.
What is your background (born here or a transplant – if so, from where)?
I am a transplant from Atlanta, Los Angeles, Upper Peninsula of Michigan, and Detroit!
Any stories from your youth that define your path?
In Detroit in the 1960s my aunt started Scouting for children with special needs and created a school for people with intellectual disabilities and their parents/guardians. I saw from her the value of forming community and bringing everyone to the table.
Where did you study (if you did higher education)?
I have a degree in Scientific and Technical Communications from Michigan Technological University.
What do you do for work now?
I am an independent filmmaker. Recently, I co-produced UECK, MAKE PEACE OR DIE (EXEC PRODUCER), and the PROJECT HAIL MARY CHALLENGE (Educational Impact Campaign based on the film and book). I have 3 films in various phases of production, and an epic film in early development. I work locally and globally.
Can you talk a little bit about your career journey? How’d you get to where you are now?
Like all filmmakers, I went to an engineering university. Actually, going into film without a film degree was an asset. Steven Spielberg hired me because of my unique background and my research and technical skills. His development department was staffed with English and other liberal arts majors, and he thought I would bring a different perspective to story development.
Can you talk more about your community involvement?
I am on the boards of ImagineMke and BBBS-MKE Big Advisory Group. I have been a BIG for 10 years, and with my Little, Lexie, we are the 2026 Match of the Year!
What are some ways you have impacted the community in your line of work?
When I first moved to Milwaukee almost 10 years ago, I sought out the film community to find my people. That created an opportunity to work at Milwaukee Film as the director of the Milwaukee Filmmaker Alliance, helping local filmmakers advance their trade. Currently, I am part of the core working group of Action!WI, the advocacy organization that brought back a film office and film tax incentives.
What do you like about living in Milwaukee?
My Bay View neighbors, summers, living by Lake Michigan, cycling trails, getting anywhere I need to be in 15 minutes, including my departure gate at Mitchell Field, since I travel a lot!
Culture and art are economic developers. The culture of a city is made by what it funds and the voices that it hears. I believe Milwaukee will continue to increase funding for public art, creative storytelling, and local artists with diverse voices. And as a BIG, I see the opportunity for cultural enrichment and a vibrant city that will help our Littles thrive and grow!
What do you want to see for Milwaukee’s future?
I believe Milwaukee will have a vibrant future by building culture and social connections through the arts and supporting our youth. I participate in organizations like BBBS and ImagineMKE! to bring this vision to reality!
Anything else we should know about you, your job, community involvement, or life in general?
My late father could meet someone and make a connection immediately. I have that same gene. I’d love to meet and make a connection!