Stonehill Alumna Featured in New Film from Oscar-Winning Producer

Aisha McAdams '17, an award-winning photographer and former competitive runner for Stonehill, is the focus of a new documentary, Learning to Fly, which premiered at the Telluride Film Festival in August 2025. 

Directed by Max Lowe (Torn) and produced by Oscar-winner Evan Hayes (Free Solo), the movie follows McAdams as she captures the triumphs and struggles of some of ultra running's biggest names, including Jim Walmsley and Eszter Csillag. While photographing and interviewing these elite athletes, McAdams confronts her own complex past and explores the reasons why she had to step away from racing, a pursuit that had once brought her a sense of freedom, joy and belonging.

Since graduating from Stonehill with a degree in communication, McAdams has made a name for herself in the world of photography. Fueled by a passion for documenting the human experience, her work focuses on the stories found within sport and is recognized for its intimacy. Her impressive list of clients includes Nike, Puma, Salomon, Hoka, New Balance, Brooks, On Running, Maurten and Saucony. In 2021, McAdams and fellow artist Brenden Clarke published We Appreciate Your Interest, However, a photobook exploring the 2021 Olympic Trials. 

The trailer for Learning to Fly can be viewed above. Visit here for more information about McAdams and the film.