While his fortunes soared in Hollywood, Kevin Smith was always generous in his support of the Vancouver Film School. Today (February 13) the filmmaker was named as the school's first ever Creative Ambassador.

“Vancouver Film School was the first step on the road to making Clerks,” Smith writes, in a media release. “In the hallowed halls of VFS, I not only learned the basics of my craft—I also met other likeminded dreamers who would go on to help me tell my stories for the rest of my life. I’m proud and humbled to be named a Creative Ambassador for my alma mater, and I look forward to sharing what little I know with the next generation of VFS artists!”

The media statement notes that Smith was responsible for VFS scholarships totalling more than $250,000 in 2019. As Creative Ambassador, he will continue to drive scholarship initiatives while making "a number of campus appearances in support of VFS students, including a Storyteller’s Studio AMA event."

VFS president James Griffin adds: “It is a remarkable event to have Kevin Smith as our first Creative Ambassador. Kevin attended VFS in the earliest days and has maintained a connection ever since. His success across film, TV, and digital media as writer, director, producer, actor, and celebrity is a testament to his immense talent.”