KOO Animation Academy visits Pixar
By Theo Hollingsworth
5/12/25 – We closed out this season’s KOO Animation Academy After School Program with a special visit to Pixar Animation Studios—just down the street from KOO Labs in Emeryville. This trip marked a major highlight for our students, many of whom are exploring the world of animation for the first time.
The visit was hosted by Dr. Cornell Verdeja-Woodson, Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Pixar, who has been a steadfast supporter of our work. With his help, we were able to bring our students into a professional studio environment that reflects the level of creative excellence we train them for at KOO Labs.
The tour began with a walk through the Pixar campus, where students got a behind-the-scenes look at works in progress and unreleased concept art from upcoming films and series. Being in that environment sparked excitement and ambition—it helped our students envision themselves thriving in spaces where Black creatives have historically been underrepresented.
The day continued with an intimate panel discussion featuring the creative team behind Win or Lose, Pixar’s newest animated series on Disney+. Students heard directly from Co-Directors Michael Yates and Carrie Hobson, Producer David Lally, Art Director Lou Hamou-Lhadj, and Layout Artist Shana Joseph. Michael Yates, a Black animation director based here in the Bay Area, offered a particularly resonant story of success, and each panelist brought valuable insights into their career paths and daily work on an animated production.
Students asked thoughtful questions, ranging from how ideas get pitched to how voice and visuals come together in the editing room. It was a powerful reminder that mentorship and exposure to real industry professionals can expand the dreams and direction of young Black creatives.
We’re so thankful to the Pixar team for opening their doors and sharing their time. Experiences like this energize our mission and affirm that our students belong in every corner of this industry.
