Organized entirely by University of Iowa students through CINE:2863, the 2025 Iowa City Documentary Film Festival (ICDOCS) showcased more than 60 documentary films alongside feature-length screenings, filmmaker talks, and community events. With a festival theme of “Metamorphosis,” students gained real-world experience in programming, marketing, outreach, and event planning, resulting in record audience engagement and significant social media growth. The festival highlighted the importance of experiential learning, collaboration, and expanded career pathways within documentary film and arts administration.