With a shared passion for the intersection of storytelling and environmental advocacy, alumni David Ruck and Grace Eggleston exemplify the potential of documentary filmmaking to inspire positive change. In a recent discussion with host Grace Ibrahim on the Media in the Mix podcast, they shared insights into their professional experiences and their commitment to environmental storytelling. 

Ruck, a dedicated documentary filmmaker, has carved a niche for himself by focusing on science and environmental-related subjects. After completing his studies, Ruck worked with the National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration which eventually led him to establish the Great Lakes Outreach Media. Some of Ruck's notable works can be found on PBS, where he communicates captivating stories centered on science and the Great Lakes of Michigan. 

Ruck kicked off the episode by explaining how he chose AU for its position both geographically and academically. He said that if you are interested in non-fiction storytelling, “a big pull to American University is the fact you’re in DC where the biggest decisions in the world, arguably, are made.” He also discussed the numerous organizations and NGOs in DC giving students in the communications field an opportunity to insert themselves and offer their skills to help an agency or non-profit meet and capture new audiences.  

“Everyone that I learned from [at SOC] had either worked in the field for an extensive amount of time or was still working in the field. I think the connections that the staff have to industry is really key to helping folks take that next step,” Ruck said.  

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Eggleston's passion for environmental documentary filmmaking stems from her upbringing near a lake in a rural town. Her decision to pursue an MFA at SOC was driven by a desire to reignite her creativity, and she found the perfect platform to do so within the university's vibrant community.  

“From when I was ten, I was taking blurry pictures of great blue herons. And then I went to college, and I was getting into written communication and working for non-profits,” she said. 

Eggleston’s career post-AU has kept her close by, as a wildlife and documentary filmmaker in Washington, D.C. She primarily works as a freelance cinematographer and editor for a wide range of production companies and nonprofits. Since her time at AU, Eggleston has been a part of various documentary films including Street Reporter (produced and directed by SOC alumna and professor Laura Waters Hinson), A River Called Home, Hello in Here, The Haunting of Shark Tower, Ploverville and The Erie Situation which is how she met Ruck. 

Ruck, having accumulated extensive footage and interviews related to the Great Lakes, sought a producing partner to bring the project to fruition. Professor Maggie Stogner played a pivotal role in connecting Ruck and Eggleston, leading to the development of a compelling documentary exploring the crisis created by toxic algae in Lake Erie and the question of what to do about it. This collaboration was particularly meaningful for Eggleston, given her Michigan roots and her own, unfinished Great Lakes-related thesis project which was terminated due to COVID.  

“It worked out for the best because I got to work on a much bigger project,” Eggleston said. 

As both filmmakers continue their journeys in the world of documentary filmmaking, their commitment to telling meaningful stories about the environment and its inhabitants remains unwavering. Their experiences at AU SOC have shaped their perspectives and provided them with the necessary tools to make a lasting impact through their work.