Encyclopedia Dubuque
"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.”
Marshall Cohen—researcher and producer, CNN
Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
GORRELL, Susan
GORRELL, Susan. (Chelmsford, England-- ). Gorrell's background as a production coordinator and graphic designer, an event producer for the Unity Catholic Music Awards and Video Associations Unity Awards, and her interest in films have been cites as reasons for her outstanding success as the executive director for the JULIEN DUBUQUE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL.
Married to Kenny Gorrell, a winner of an Emmy Award, Susan and Kenny decided to return to Iowa to raise their family. As their children grew older, Susan began working in film as a producer. She became an active volunteer with the Julien Dubuque festival organization and became a member of its board of directors. In 2014 she took on the role of executive director.
The Gorrell family have continued their contributions to the arts. Their son, Skylar, was nominated for an Iscar in 2017 with the visual effects team for "Deepwater Horizon," Their son, Brandon, scouts locations for movies.
Growing the JDIFF has remained her goal. She