Phil Roman: 1930—: Animator, Producer, Director

Roman has not forgotten his experience and the mentors that helped him get where he is today. In honor of his experience, Roman established an internship program that allows high school students and other young animators to work in the animation studio. This gives them the chance that Roman received when he began his journey at the Hollywood Art Center School.

In addition to assisting youth in their careers, Roman is also involved in the enrichment of the Hispanic-American community. Roman serves on the U.S. Republican Conference Task Force on Hispanic Affairs and frequently travels to Washington, D.C., to attend meetings with political and industrial players. Roman also serves as a member of the board of trustees for the Hispanic College Fund. He has received the Trailblazer Award from Hispanic Magazine as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Imagen Foundation.

Roman saw his heritage as a contributing factor in his creativity and imagination, but also gave credit to his diligence as a factor in his success. He stated in Latino Success, "The great thing about this business is that you're judged only on what you do, not who you are.… Your product should speak for you, nothing else. Absolutely."