Geraud Blanks

During the past 20 years, Geraud Blanks has contributed to the Milwaukee community in various capacities. Dating back to his time as a student programmer at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee (UWM), he has produced large-scale cultural events throughout the state of Wisconsin. As an event promoter, contributing music writer to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and co-founder of the Milwaukee Film Festival Black Lens program, Geraud has been a leading supporter of local artists.

In addition to his work in the arts, Geraud has a long history in community service. A former community organizer for Milwaukee anti-crime initiative Safe & Sound; outreach coordinator for homeless shelter Hebron House; and domestic violence caseworker for Wisconsin’s largest anti-domestic-violence agency, Sojourner, he has committed much of his life advocating for marginalized groups.

Geraud is currently Milwaukee Film’s chief innovation officer, responsible for leading the Milwaukee Film audience, brand, and content development. In 2019, he created the Cultures and Communities initiative to showcase different cultural perspectives, experiences, and representations through film and event programming. Geraud is also a dissertator in Communication Studies at Northwestern University, where he teaches public speaking.

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