Varsity Cinema

Celebrating Independent Film in Des Moines for 10 Years

It was a milestone year for Des Moines Film, as 2025 brought with it our 10-year-anniversary. From an all-volunteer organization, with a three-person-board, hosting a few pop-up events a year, to a robust nonprofit operating The Varsity Cinema 365-days-a-year, it’s been quite a journey. We launched Des Moines Film with the idea that Des Moines deserved a dedicated film-arts organization, and it’s through the overwhelming support of the community that we’ve been able to deliver that. Without our members, patrons and donors, we would not be here. Thank you. Ben Godar Executive Director

Serving The Community with Special Events

Over the past year, Varsity Cinema continued to serve as a gathering place where film acts as a starting point for connection and conversation. Our community events invited audiences to engage with ideas, artists, and neighbors in ways that extend beyond the screen. Through partnerships with local cultural organizations, advocacy groups, educators, and artists, the Varsity hosted events that encouraged reflection on science, history, labor, environmental justice, disability access, and LGBTQ+ identity. Filmmaker premieres, panel discussions, and Science on Screen programs created opportunities for deeper engagement and meaningful dialogue rooted in the lived experiences of our community. Access, inclusion, and shared experience remained central to this work. Sensory-friendly and accessible screenings welcomed audiences who are often excluded from traditional moviegoing spaces. Festivals and special series elevated Latino filmmakers, local artists, and underrepresented voices, while celebratory events and anniversary screenings reinforced the Varsity as a place for collective joy and participation. Through ongoing collaboration with libraries, orchestras, advocacy organizations, and grassroots partners, Varsity Cinema continues to serve Des Moines with engaging, informative programming that reflects the values of our mission and the richness of the community we are here to support.

Building a Future of Film

Education Program

Looking ahead, Varsity Cinema is entering a new chapter in its education programming, building on careful planning and growing community interest. Over the past year, we laid the groundwork for a more expansive and sustainable approach to film education, informed by conversations with peer organizations and a close look at best practices from across the country. This work allowed us to reimagine how Varsity can serve young people as a creative and educational resource, using film as a tool for critical thinking, self-expression, and connection to the wider world. Beginning in 2026, our education program will grow to include expanded summer camps and school field trip offerings designed for students across a wider range of ages. These programs introduce young participants to filmmaking, visual storytelling, and film analysis through hands-on activities, guided discussion, and shared viewing experiences. By pairing curated films with age-appropriate engagement, Varsity creates welcoming entry points into cinema while supporting learning in areas like humanities, world cultures, and media literacy. Early outreach has already generated strong enthusiasm from families, educators, and community members, signaling a deep appetite for this work. As Varsity Cinema looks to the future, our education programming reflects a long-term commitment to nurturing curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong relationship with film for the next generation of Des Moines audiences.

Film Center & Lofts

Des Moines Film was able to acquire the building immediately north of Varsity Cinema, which will one day provide the opportunity for an expanded film center with additional auditoriums, community gathering and education space. In 2025, a smaller Phase I of the project addressed general building needs and renovated the 2nd floor apartments of the mixed-use building. Lease revenue will cover building expenses until we are ready to undertake Phase II.

Board of Directors

Thank you to our 2025 Board of Directors for their leadership and commitment to Varsity Cinema. We extend our sincere gratitude to Debra Kurtz, Fabiola Schirrmeister, and Nick Renkoski, whose terms concluded this year, for the care they brought to the organization. Katie Bryan Laura Burkhalter Daniel Jansen Debra Kurtz Jon Petersen Tim Reinders Nick Renkoski Fabiola Schirrmeister Frank Vaia Daniel Van Sant Michael Wagler Rachel Woodhouse

Sponsors & Partners

Thank you to our amazing sponsors and partners for their generous support. Their contributions make it possible for Varsity Cinema to bring engaging, independent film programming to our community.

AARP Iowa Bravo Greater Des Moines First Fleet Concerts ValPak Fortress Bank A24 Films Art House Convergence Atlantic Coca-Cola Bottling Company Autism Society of Iowa Des Moines Arts Center Des Moines Metro Opera Des Moines Performing Arts Des Moines Playhouse Des Moines Public Library Des Moines Symphony Dough Co. Pizza Drake University Faegre Drinker Gateway Market The Harkin Institute Latino Center of Iowa La Mie Bakery Little Village Lucky Horse Beer & Burgers Mars Cafe Monsoon Asians & Pacific Islanders In Solidarity On Pitch Marketing The Sundance Institute Vidiots Foundation