Tom Fields '14

Describe what you're working on and/or what you're most proud to have accomplished.
At Amazon Studios, I oversee television series for Prime Video. As an executive, I lead projects through all phases of creative development, from the initial pitch to premiere. My credits include INVINCIBLE with Robert Kirkman, THE LEGEND OF VOX MACHINA with Critical Role, and THE HOSPITAL, an upcoming series produced by Maya Rudolph and Natasha Lyonne. I’m also wrapping up a young adult show, BEYOND BLACK BEAUTY, for Freevee. My proudest accomplishment is being engaged to my best friend, Alex.

You know we have to ask it. Do you have a favorite SLUH memory or teacher?
Joe Schulte ’54 left an indelible mark on my life. I was lucky enough to have him as a theater teacher, speech coach, mentor, and close friend. Countless late night rehearsals, run-throughs, and creative meetings prepared me personally and professionally.

What topic are you most excited about in your industry?
Animation has entered a second golden age. New stories are being told with animation that couldn’t be told any other way. With generations of fans, animation has never been in higher demand.

What does the future of your industry look like? What else would you like to accomplish?
I’m most excited to make animation accessible to more artists and writers outside the traditional pipeline, telling authentic stories across the human experience.

How are you acting as a Man for Others in your current role?
My full time job is championing the artist’s vision. I give credit where credit is due. I take the blame when things go sideways. And I don’t seek rewards for each of my creative contributions.

What advice would you give to current students?
Copying is practice. Turning it in is plagiarism. Your notebooks should be filled with other people’s drawings, prose, and poetry. Your process is a mosaic of other processes. Copy. Copy. Copy.

Were you involved in any activities at SLUH that hinted at your path?
My involvement with the Dauphin Players, Prep News, and Poetry Out Loud hinted at my current path. Classes like Advanced English and Reading & Writing Fiction foreshadowed a lot of what I do today.