American Film Institute...allies with Philanthropy Project!

There was a celebratory air in the room.

Fastidious waiters circulated the room conspicuously, offering up scrumptious finger-food

At the open bar, the liquor flowed freely.

Guests excitedly tittered about this and that as the faces of AFI staff and organizers from the Philanthropy Project brimmed with wide smiles.

I half-expected a tuxedoed toastmaster to clink the side of a crystal glass with fine silver cutlery when the much-anticipated news was announced to industry-insiders in attendance at the rooftop lounge of the AFI Fest headquarters.

On the heels of an insightful rooftop TALK/SHOW on - "The Power of Film to Inspire Philanthropy" - the Director of the Philanthropy Project, Michael Guillen, announced there would not only be a partnership with the AFI Conservatory - but, that the fresh alliance - had already born its first fruits.

At a news conference the following week, the AFI and the Philanthropy Project would provide specific details about a newly-launched funding program, to award 10 Scholarships to promising film students each year.

Yes, this cub reporter - and proverbial Johnny-on-the-spot - brought the scoop to you before the other media biggies even got wind of it.

For the Philanthropy Project, the AFI is a great suitor.

In 1965, President Lyndon Johnson signed legislation in the Rose Garden at the Nation's Capitol - and with that mighty stroke of the pen - created the prestigious National Endowment for the Arts.

On that auspicious occasion, he noted for the record:

"We will create an American Film Institute that will bring together leading artists of the film industry, outstanding educators, and young men and women who wish to pursue this 20th century art form as their life's work."

Today, AFI is not only a National Institute that provides leadership in screen education, but a respected one that celebrates excellence in the art of film, television and digital media.

AFI trains the next generation of filmmakers at its world-renowned Conservatory, maintains America's film heritage through the AFI Catalog of Feature Films, and explores new digital technologies in entertainment and education through the AFI Digital Content Lab and K-12 Screen Education Center.

The annual AFI AWARDS also honor the most outstanding motion pictures and television programs each year.

In addition, by virtue of the AFI's 100 Years series, an extraordinary public interest in classic American movies has been ignited.

Today, AFI's Life Achievement Award is the highest honor bestowed on an artist in film.