Christian University breaks ground on a state-of-the-art film studio, funded by the Snyder family, to enhance its renowned media program.
Biola University is breaking ground on a 45,463 square-foot studio facility, thanks to the generous contribution of Lynsi Snyder-Ellingson, owner and president of In-N-Out Burger. The state-of-the-art facility will elevate Biola to a leading position in media training nationwide rivaling the top universities across the US.
Named the Snyder School of Cinema & Media Arts building, the facility will feature a 3,000-square-foot soundstage, a 285-seat theater, collaborative editing spaces, specialized classrooms, and other amenities designed to support students pursuing careers in film, television, digital media, and game design.
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“This new studio center expands our capabilities and provides students with the tools they need to excel in media production,” said Tom Halleen, founding dean of the Snyder School of Cinema & Media Arts. “With state-of-the-art facilities and top-tier resources, we are positioning our students for success across multiple media platforms.”
Next Generation of Storytellers
Biola’s vision for the new facility is part of a larger effort to enhance the school’s mission of shaping the next generation of storytellers with a commitment to both technical excellence and strong character. “This groundbreaking symbolizes more than just the construction of a building,” Halleen added. “It marks a new chapter in our ongoing dedication to nurturing media professionals who are not only skilled in their craft but are also grounded in ethical values.”
The groundbreaking ceremony was held today, Friday, Sept. 6, featuring remarks from Halleen, Snyder-Ellingson, and Biola University President Barry H. Corey. Film students and university leaders will join the celebration, which will culminate in an In-N-Out Burger picnic on campus.
Connection to Biola
The Snyder family has a long-standing connection to Biola, having made the largest donation in the university’s 116-year history. In May 2023, the university renamed its film school in honor of Esther L. Snyder, co-founder of In-N-Out Burger. In addition to funding the new facility, the Snyder family established the In-N-Out Scholars Fund, an annual scholarship supporting at-risk and foster youth aspiring to enter the film industry.
The Snyder School of Cinema & Media Arts is one of Biola’s fastest-growing programs, providing students with access to over $3 million in state-of-the-art equipment and technology. Recognized by Variety, The Hollywood Reporter, and The Wrap as one of the top film schools in the nation, the program emphasizes the development of students who excel both creatively and morally.
As the university continues to invest in its media programs, this new studio facility will ensure that Biola remains at the forefront of media education, equipping students for impactful careers in film, television, gaming, and digital storytelling.
