Julia Huffman ‘90, to Headline Bethany College’s Grimes Lecture Series during Homecoming

BETHANY, W.Va. – Julia Huffman ‘90, an accomplished documentary filmmaker and influential environmental advocate, will be the keynote speaker at the annual Grimes Lecture Series at Bethany College. The event, a highlight of the College’s Homecoming celebrations, is scheduled for Sept. 30 at 11:30 a.m. in Wailes Theatre. 

Huffman’s renowned career as a producer and filmmaker has garnered global recognition for her impactful work highlighting urgent social and environmental issues. With a focus on wildlife conservation and the intricate interplay between humans and nature, her documentaries have captivated audiences worldwide.

Her critically acclaimed directorial debut, “Medicine of the Wolf,” dives into the intricate world of wolves and their vital role in ecological harmony. The film earned accolades including the Grand Jury award at the Arizona International Film Festival and the Audience Choice award at the G2 Green Earth Film Festival in Los Angeles.  

Huffman’s work has been endorsed by Dr. Jane Goodall, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Louise Erdrich, and music legends James Taylor, Bonnie Raitt, and Graham Nash. Her documentaries and advocacy efforts have also been showcased on networks including NBC, PBS, ABC, Huffington Post, and National Geographic. 

Beyond filmmaking, Huffman’s advocacy extended to the TEDx stage in Fargo, N.D., where she emphasized the significance of apex predators. She has collaborated on projects with organizations like the Sierra Club and contributed to productions for HGTV and the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures. 

Currently, Huffman is immersed in her latest project, “Mother, Daughter, Earth,” a deeply personal documentary exploring her mother’s pioneering journey as an early female computer programmer in the 1960s, and her dedication to wilderness and nature conservation advocacy. This heartfelt endeavor reflects Huffman’s ongoing commitment to preserving and celebrating the beauty of the natural world. 

Join Huffman during Homecoming weekend as she shares her early beginnings of developing a love for the land in Appalachia, and how attending Bethany College gave her voice and purpose as a documentary filmmaker.