Dawoud Mishal, a junior majoring in film production at CSUN, believes in the joy art brings to people and the impact film has on society. Both have inspired him to use his movies to create connections among people.

A sprinter on the CSUN track and field team, Dawoud received the 2021 CSUN Scholar-Athlete Award. He volunteers with nonprofit organizations to provide meals to Syrian refugees in Jordan and feed homeless populations locally.

​Dawoud’s goal is to make noteworthy films and animation that generate empathy and can act as a heartwarming distraction from people’s struggles.