Animation Powerhouse to Headline 2026 Suraj Israni Memorial Lecture at UC San Diego

Emmy-winning producer and studio leader Marge Dean will deliver the annual lecture and showcase conceptual art exhibit.

Jan. 31, 2026 at 5:31am

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The Suraj Israni Center for Cinematic Arts and UC San Diego Alumni Relations are hosting the 2026 Suraj Israni Memorial Lecture, featuring Emmy-winning producer, studio builder, and UC San Diego alumna Marge Dean. As Head of the Studio at Skybound Entertainment, Dean leads the development and production of original animated content and is building a new production facility. Beyond the studio, she is a transformative industry advocate as a leader of Women in Animation.

Why it matters

The Suraj Israni Memorial Lecture brings renowned figures in the entertainment industry to UC San Diego to inspire the next generation of filmmakers and animators. Dean's career achievements and advocacy work make her an ideal speaker to continue this legacy.

The details

In addition to delivering the lecture, Dean will also have a multimedia art exhibition titled "The Sweepers" on display in the Mosaic lobby before and after the event. The six conceptual art pieces explore the idea of a world where housework is valued and the women doing it are recognized as creative visionaries.

  • The 2026 Suraj Israni Memorial Lecture will take place on January 31, 2026.

The players

Marge Dean

An Emmy-winning producer, studio builder, and UC San Diego alumna who currently serves as the Head of the Studio at Skybound Entertainment, leading the development and production of original animated content.

Suraj Israni Center for Cinematic Arts

A center at UC San Diego that hosts the annual memorial lecture to inspire the next generation of filmmakers and animators.

UC San Diego Alumni Relations

The department at UC San Diego that is co-hosting the 2026 Suraj Israni Memorial Lecture.

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What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 Suraj Israni Memorial Lecture featuring Marge Dean are available on Eventbrite.

The takeaway

The 2026 Suraj Israni Memorial Lecture will feature an accomplished UC San Diego alumna who has made significant contributions to the animation industry as a producer, studio leader, and advocate for women in the field, inspiring the next generation of filmmakers and animators.