Jesus Cruz Martinez

SUNY Orange liberal arts student Jesus Cruz Martinez of Harriman is turning his passion for horror films into an opportunity to bring his own screenplay, “Pact with the Dead,” to the screen. Cruz Martinez has been named one of 10 finalists in the highly competitive Screenwriting Sprint Lab, which gives aspiring screenwriters guidance from mentors with extensive film industry experience.

A first-generation college student and graduate of Saunders Trades and Technical High School in Yonkers, Cruz Martinez has long been fascinated by horror, particularly zombie-themed stories. His path to the competition began in Spring 2026, when he wrote a screenplay for an elective course taught by Professor Hanna Sawka, who encouraged him to apply to the lab.

“I wanted to do film in high school,” Cruz Martinez said, “but I did not feel like I had the resources I would need to be successful. I took classes, though, and I just wanted to do everything.”

“Although Jesus had hesitated to pursue film professionally because he wasn't sure he could succeed in the industry, he wrote a phenomenal screenplay in my class. I encouraged him to believe in his talent and continue writing. I'm thrilled to see him take this step toward realizing his potential as a screenwriter,” said Sawka.

Cruz Martinez initially attended another college before enrolling at SUNY Orange to study psychology. His experience as a camp counselor, supporting young people with a range of challenges and disabilities, helped shape his interest in social work.

“Working as a camp counselor when I was younger and supporting young people with numerous challenges and disabilities initially made me decide to only work with children. Now, I am more open to discovering where I really want to work, where I can make the biggest impact while allowing me to help people,” he said.

With only two science courses remaining to complete his SUNY Orange degree, Cruz Martinez is balancing his academic goals with his screenwriting ambitions. The Screenwriting Sprint Lab winner will receive $10,000 to produce the film, with production planned for 2027.

As he looks ahead, Cruz Martinez is also considering his options for continuing his education.

“There is a lot here at SUNY Orange, and everyone has been very helpful. I've enjoyed my experiences as a psychology major, and Professor Doug Sanders has certainly opened my eyes. I'm considering transferring after graduation. My dream school would be Columbia, but I would also enjoy attending Montclair.”

To learn more about SUNY Orange’s academic programs, student opportunities and pathways to achieving your educational and career goals, visit sunyorange.edu.