BTTL Grant Challenge - An Honorable Mention

U S M S T BTTL Honorable Mention

U S M S T is proud to share that we have received an Honorable Mention for the Breaking Through the Lens Action Grant—a national initiative that supports powerful storytelling and creative projects that challenge barriers, amplify underrepresented voices, and push meaningful narratives forward.

While we were not selected as a final grant recipient, this recognition affirms the strength, vision, and impact of our work. Being acknowledged alongside so many inspiring projects is an honor in itself and a reminder that the stories we uplift matter.

Why Breaking Through the Lens Matters

The Breaking Through the Lens Action Grant was created to support storytellers and organizations working to expand representation, access, and equity within media and creative spaces. The grant champions projects that don’t just tell stories—but use storytelling as a tool for connection, understanding, and change.

U S M S T’s submission aligned closely with this mission, focusing on authentic narratives that challenge stereotypes and create space for voices that are too often overlooked. Receiving an Honorable Mention reinforces our commitment to continuing this work with intention and integrity.

A Moment of Recognition—and Momentum

This acknowledgment is more than a line on a résumé; it’s a moment of momentum. It tells us that our ideas resonate, our approach is seen, and our impact is being felt beyond our immediate community.

We are deeply grateful to the Breaking Through the Lens review panel for taking the time to engage with our proposal and for recognizing the value of our vision. We also extend thanks to our collaborators, supporters, and community members who continue to believe in the power of storytelling to inspire action and understanding.

Looking Ahead

U S M S T remains committed to pushing forward—developing projects that center truth, creativity, and community. This Honorable Mention fuels our determination to keep breaking through barriers, refining our craft, and creating work that sparks conversation and change.

Thank you for being part of this journey with us. The lens is wide open—and we’re just getting started.