Shannon Loftis: The New Chair of IGDA Foundation
Shannon Loftis: A Background in Game Development
In an exciting development for the International Game Developers Association Foundation (IGDA-F), former Microsoft executive Shannon Loftis has been appointed as the new chair of its board of directors. With a background in game development and a commitment to inclusion, Loftis is poised to contribute significantly to the IGDA Foundation's mission. This article explores Loftis' experience and achievements, the importance of diversity and inclusion in the gaming industry, and the role of the IGDA Foundation in advancing inclusivity. Join us as we delve into the world of gaming and discover how Loftis and the IGDA Foundation are reshaping the industry for the better.
Contributions to the Gaming Industry
Shannon Loftis brings a wealth of experience in game development to her role as the new chair of the IGDA Foundation. With over 30 years of experience at Microsoft and beyond, Loftis has made significant contributions to the industry. After graduating from Duke University with degrees in computer science and mathematics, Loftis joined Microsoft's Games group in 1995. Throughout her career, she has contributed to over 70 games across PC, Xbox, and Xbox 360, including popular titles like the Fable series, the Viva Piñata series, and Banjo Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts. Loftis has also held leadership roles at Microsoft, managing teams responsible for successful projects such as the Kinect system and bestselling titles like ReCore and Ori. Her background in game development and leadership positions makes her a perfect fit for leading the IGDA Foundation.
The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion in Gaming
Shannon Loftis' contributions to the gaming industry go beyond her individual achievements. She has been actively involved in initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion. Loftis co-founded Microsoft's Women in Gaming SIG, which is still active today as part of Games 4 Everyone (G4E). This initiative aims to create a more inclusive gaming industry by supporting women and underrepresented communities. Loftis' dedication to inclusion and connection stems from her experiences growing up in a large, close family. She believes that technology and entertainment have the power to build communities and forge connections, which has been a driving force throughout her career. With her new role as the chair of the IGDA Foundation, Loftis will continue to make a positive impact on the gaming industry by advancing inclusivity and diversity.
The Role of the IGDA Foundation
Diversity and inclusion are crucial in the gaming industry for several reasons. Firstly, inclusive communities foster creativity and innovation. When people from different backgrounds and perspectives come together, they bring fresh ideas and approaches to game development. This leads to the creation of more diverse and engaging games that appeal to a broader audience. Secondly, diversity and inclusion are essential for representation. By including voices from all walks of life, the gaming industry can better reflect the experiences and identities of players. This helps players feel seen and heard, leading to a more enjoyable and inclusive gaming experience. Lastly, diversity and inclusion in gaming contribute to the overall growth and success of the industry. Studies have shown that diverse teams are more productive, adaptable, and better at problem-solving. Therefore, promoting diversity and inclusion is not only the right thing to do but also a smart business decision for game developers.